Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with stuffed pasta shells, especially when they are packed with creamy Cajun chicken Alfredo goodness. I recently tried this recipe for Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with a rich chicken and cheese mixture, all smothered in a flavorful Cajun Alfredo sauce, left everyone at the table raving about the meal. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or special gatherings, and the best part? It takes just 30 minutes to prepare!

Ingredients

• 1 lb large pasta shells
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 cups cream (or milk, or a combination)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano), grated
• ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup cooked broccoli, diced
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano), grated
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

Prepare Pasta Shells

Cook the pasta shells according to package directions. After draining, set them aside to cool individually to prevent sticking.

Make Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cream, ½ cup Parmesan, and ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Prepare Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, shredded chicken, diced broccoli, sliced green onions, ½ cup Parmesan, lemon zest, and ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning until well combined.

Assemble Stuffed Shells

Pour the Cajun Alfredo sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the dish. Once all the shells are filled, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the top.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the assembled dish in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Enjoy!

Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells dish!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 650

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish for a casual dining experience.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or additional green onions for a pop of color.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Drizzle with extra Cajun seasoning for those who enjoy a bit more spice.
• Offer garlic bread on the side for a delightful addition.

Additional Tips

1. Pasta Shells: Boil a few extra shells in case some break during cooking.
2. Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the Cajun Alfredo sauce by adding more cream or milk if desired.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
4. Veggie Additions: Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for more flavor and nutrition.
5. Leftovers: Reheat leftovers in the oven for best results, but the microwave works in a pinch.

Recipe Variations

• Seafood Version: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or crab for a delicious seafood twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or more Cajun seasoning to the filling for an extra spicy version.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with additional vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even sautéed mushrooms.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in additional cheeses like gouda or cheddar to the filling for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the filling for a fresh taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or a fresh mixed greens salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing complement to the dish.
• For a fun twist, serve with a side of garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Assemble the stuffed shells and freeze before baking. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any type of large pasta that can be stuffed, such as conchiglie or cannelloni.
2. Is there a substitute for cream?
   You can use half-and-half or even milk, but the sauce may be less rich.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more vegetables to the filling.
4. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
   You can make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano.
5. How do I know when the dish is done baking?
   The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges of the sauce should be lightly browned.
6. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the shells.
7. What if I can’t find large pasta shells?
   Use a smaller pasta and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
8. Is this dish spicy?
   The level of spice can be adjusted based on the amount of Cajun seasoning you use.
9. Can I use leftover chicken?
   Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe.
10. What should I do with leftovers?
    Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a fantastic fusion of flavors that elevate a classic comfort food. With their creamy, cheesy filling and zesty Cajun kick, this dish is sure to please any palate. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s a great option for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it has quickly become a favorite in our household! Enjoy every bite of this delicious culinary creation!

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