Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food to enjoy on a Sunday game day, look no further than these mouth-watering Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells. This crowd-pleaser combines spicy buffalo sauce with creamy ricotta, creating a delightful filling for jumbo pasta shells. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are perfect for dipping in ranch or blue cheese dressing and sure to become a favorite on your menu!
Yield and Title
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Additional Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 40 mins
Servings: 6
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 cup cayenne pepper sauce (such as Frank’s® RedHot®)
- 1 (16 ounce) container whipped ricotta cheese
- Cooking spray
- 1 (16 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells
- 1 (8 ounce) package shredded cheddar cheese-Monterey Jack cheese blend
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Firstly, gather all the ingredients for these flavorful Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells. This step ensures you have everything you need on hand before cooking.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Begin by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the ground chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it down into small pieces.
Step 3: Mixing the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the cayenne pepper sauce. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce, then set the mixture aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta
For a thicker stuffing, as a side tip, drain your ricotta overnight. In a mixing bowl, combine the whipped ricotta cheese with the buffalo chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta Shells
While preparing the stuffing, cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water as directed on the package, typically 9-11 minutes or until al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as they need to be firm enough to hold the filling.
Step 6: Stuff the Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying with cooking spray. Once the pasta shells are cooked, drain and allow them to cool until easy to handle. Stuff each shell with the ricotta and buffalo chicken mixture, placing them seam side up in the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the stuffed shells with shredded cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Allow shells to cool slightly before serving.
Healthier Cooking Option
As a healthier alternative, consider using olive oil instead of butter for cooking the chicken, reducing saturated fats. Additionally, low-fat whipped ricotta and shredded cheese can substitute regular versions to decrease calories without sacrificing taste.
Why You’ll Love Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are a fusion of flavors and textures. They are quick and easy to prepare, using only a few ingredients and steps. The richness of ricotta blends beautifully with the spicy kick from cayenne sauce, making it a fantastic dish to enjoy with old friends and a great new addition to any family gathering. Most importantly, this recipe invites you to experiment with healthier substitutions to match your fitness goals.
Ready to give it a try? Grab your apron and get cooking these delightful Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells today!
