If you’re looking for a dish that combines the fiery flavor of Buffalo wings with the comforting goodness of pasta, then look no further than these Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells. This easy yet indulgent recipe will soon become your go-to for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and game days. With tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a zesty mixture of shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and spicy Buffalo sauce, every bite is a flavor explosion. Plus, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. So get ready to impress your family and friends with this cheesy, spicy delight that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face!
The popularity of Buffalo chicken has been soaring, and with good reason! It’s vibrant, savory, and undeniably satisfying. These Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells combine these classic flavors while keeping the preparation straightforward. Not only are they delicious, but they also offer the benefits of being meal-preppable and easy to store. You can even make them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve. This dish is all about convenience without sacrificing taste, which is a dream for busy home cooks!
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly and doesn’t require any advanced cooking skills.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of Buffalo sauce, chicken, and cheesy goodness elevates this dish to another level.
- Meal Prep Friendly: You can make this recipe ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, or freeze it for later.
- Great for Sharing: Perfect for potlucks, game days, or family dinners; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making these Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells, it’s essential to prepare your workspace effectively. Gather all your ingredients and ensure that you have everything within reach. A clean, organized kitchen will make cooking much more enjoyable and less chaotic. Here’s your shopping list to consider:
In terms of tools, you will need the following:
- A large pot for boiling your pasta shells.
- A large mixing bowl for combining the filling ingredients.
- A baking dish (9×13” works perfectly) for the assembled shells.
- A wooden spoon or spatula for mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient preparation.
Once your tools are ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (190°C). While you’re waiting, you can start boiling your water for the pasta shells.
Ingredients
- 20–25 jumbo pasta shells (cooked al dente)
- 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked breast of chicken)
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your preferred brand)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional but recommended!)
- 2 green onions, diced (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (190°C). This is crucial as it ensures that your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells bake evenly and come out perfectly melty and golden. Grease the inside of your 9×13” baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
While your oven is heating up, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the instructions on the packaging until they are al dente. This is key; you want them to hold their shape as they will be stuffed and baked. After cooking, rinse the shells with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.
Step 3: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, cheddar cheese, blue cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This is where the flavor comes together! Use a spatula or spoon to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. You can adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce based on your spice preference—more for those who love heat, less for a milder flavor.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon, take the prepared chicken mixture and fill each pasta shell generously. It’s okay to pack them in a little; the more filling, the better! Place the stuffed shells in a single layer in the greased baking dish. This presentation helps with even cooking and makes for a beautiful platter.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Bake
Once all the shells are stuffed, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the dish with foil—this keeps the shells moist and helps the cheese melt nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once done, take the baking dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. For a touch of freshness, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the shells warm with blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side for additional dipping!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out chicken for shredded beef or ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: You can sneak in chopped spinach or bell peppers into the chicken mixture for added nutrition.
- Spices: Get creative with spices — cayenne for extra heat or Italian seasoning for a herby twist.
Cooking Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, add additional Buffalo sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Best Cheeses to Use: Opt for mozzarella which melts perfectly, while cheddar adds a sharp tang, and blue cheese offers that classic combo.
- Make Ahead & Storage Tips: For an easy meal prep, store unbaked stuffed shells in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: If frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal and added freshness.
- Pair with some garlic bread for extra indulgence.
Tips
- For an extra creamy filling, consider blending in some cream cheese.
- Feel free to adjust portion sizes based on your family’s appetite — one shell per person may not be enough!
- Experiment with different sauces beyond Buffalo for a unique twist.
- If you love cheese, don’t hesitate to sprinkle more on top before serving!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 25g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg per serving
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! There are many options for gluten-free jumbo pasta shells available that would work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked or unbaked stuffed shells. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables and a plant-based protein such as lentils or quinoa, along with the same sauces and seasonings.
What’s the best way to reheat these?
The best way to reheat stuffed shells is in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain their texture.
Conclusion
These Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells are not only a feast for the taste buds but they also bring comfort food to the next level. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, they’re the ultimate dinner solution for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just want something comforting on a busy evening, these stuffed shells will serve you well. So don’t wait any longer; gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try! Let us know how yours turned out and if you made any delicious variations. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
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Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delightful fusion of Buffalo chicken and pasta!
Ingredients
- 20–25 jumbo pasta shells (cooked al dente)
- 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked breast of chicken)
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your preferred brand)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional but recommended!)
- 2 green onions, diced (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing (for serving)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (190°C). Grease the inside of your 9×13” baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil, add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them until al dente. Rinse shells with cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, cheddar cheese, blue cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Using a spoon, fill each pasta shell generously with the chicken mixture. Place them in a single layer in the greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let the baking dish cool slightly, garnish with parsley and serve warm with blue cheese or ranch dressing.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the spice level and ingredient quantities based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 25 g