Name: Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 head garlic; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 20 jumbo pasta shells; 3 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; ¾ cup ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat leaf parsley plus additional for garnish (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 head roasted garlic, mashed (from above); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 16 ounces heavy cream (divided: 1 ¾ cups for sauce, ¼ cup for thickener); 1 ¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt to taste; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; ¼ cup heavy cream (remaining portion of 16 ounces)

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that feels a little fancy but is totally doable at home, let me introduce you to my Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe. It’s one of those meals I turn to when I want something rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor — perfect for family dinners or when guests come over and you want to impress without stress.

What makes this recipe stand out is the roasted garlic Alfredo sauce that ties everything together with its velvety, aromatic goodness. Plus, it’s loaded with tender shredded chicken and gooey cheeses all tucked inside jumbo pasta shells. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe, it’ll become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe plays a special role in balancing creaminess, flavor, and texture. I always look for fresh cheese, a good quality rotisserie chicken, and garlic that’s perfect for roasting to create that deep, mellow taste.

Garlic: Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and adds a lovely sweetness that makes the Alfredo sauce unforgettable.
Jumbo pasta shells: Big enough to hold a generous filling, they cook to tender perfection without falling apart.
Shredded chicken: I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, but freshly cooked chicken works great too.
Mozzarella cheese: Provides that stretchy, melty layer we all love in baked pasta dishes.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that complements the creamy sauce and chicken beautifully.
Ricotta cheese: Makes the filling extra creamy and soft so each bite is luscious.
Egg: Helps bind the filling so it holds together nicely inside the shells.
Fresh parsley: I like the pop of color and freshness it brings—plus a little in the filling plus some on top for a garnish is perfect.
Italian seasoning: Blends smoky, aromatic herbs that boost the overall flavor.
Unsalted butter: For a silky sauce base that’s rich without being overpowering.
Heavy cream: Essential for that creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce texture.
All-purpose flour: Just a touch to thicken the sauce without clumps or heaviness.
Salt and pepper: Classic seasonings to bring everything together and enhance flavors.

Variations

I love tweaking this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe depending on the season or occasion, and I encourage you to make it your own. Sometimes I add spinach for extra veggies or swap the chicken for turkey leftovers around the holidays.

Spinach or Kale: Toss in some wilted greens into the filling for a nutrient boost — it adds a fresh texture and color that’s gorgeous.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms mixed into the filling give earthiness and deepen the flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce for a little heat if that’s your jam.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use vegan cheese and a plant-based cream substitute to make this recipe friendlier for lactose intolerance but still creamy.
Make it Vegetarian: Replace chicken with roasted vegetables or a blend of ricotta and spinach for a meat-free version that’s just as comforting.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe

Step 1: Roast Garlic for That Perfect Sweetness

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Peel the loose outer skin off a whole head of garlic but keep the skins on the individual cloves intact. Cut off the tops of the cloves so you expose them just a bit — this helps the oil and heat work their magic. Drizzle with olive oil, massage it in, and wrap it tightly in foil. Pop it in the oven for about 30 minutes until the cloves are super tender and lightly golden. Let it cool while you prep the rest — roasted garlic transforms the sauce, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare Pasta Shells and Chicken Filling

Lower the oven to 375°F. Grease your baking dish with cooking spray so nothing sticks later. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells to al dente (usually about 9-11 minutes). Drain and let them cool so they’re easier to handle when stuffing. Meanwhile, in a bowl, beat your egg lightly, then add shredded chicken, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly — this is your delicious filling that’s creamy and flavorful.

Step 3: Whip Up the Roasted Garlic Alfredo Sauce

Gently squeeze the softened roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them with a fork. In a small saucepan over low to medium heat, melt the butter, then add 1¾ cups of heavy cream and the mashed roasted garlic. Heat carefully until just warm — no boiling here or you risk curdling. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts smoothly. To thicken, mix 1 tablespoon flour with the remaining ¼ cup heavy cream until smooth, then stir this into the sauce and keep heating gently until it thickens to a luscious consistency.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Your Stuffed Shells

Pour one cup of Alfredo sauce into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to coat. Fill each cooled shell generously with the chicken mixture and place them filling-side up in the pan. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce gently all over the shells. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top, and bake uncovered another 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. A sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes it off with some color.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe

The image shows an overhead view of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are seven clear glass bowls: one with yellow sliced pieces, one with shredded white meat, one with grated light yellow cheese, another with shredded pale yellow cheese, and a smaller bowl with white soft cheese. Four small clear bowls hold different green and brown spices. There is also a silver saucepan filled with thick creamy white sauce, placed toward the bottom left. Everything is spaced evenly and neatly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love adding a fresh handful of chopped parsley on top just before serving—it brightens up the plate visually and adds a touch of freshness to the rich dish. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan too, for that irresistible umami kick.

Side Dishes

This recipe is rich and filling, so I usually pair it with a crisp, simple salad—think arugula or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also make great accompaniments to soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like arranging the stuffed shells in a decorative pattern in a ceramic dish, then garnish with extra herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil before serving. Passing the dish family-style right at the table adds a warm, communal feel that guests always appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they usually keep well for up to four days. The flavors actually meld even better overnight, so it’s a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.

Freezing

This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe freezes beautifully before baking — I assemble everything, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready, I thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. It’s perfect for prepping meals in advance.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the leftovers loosely with foil to keep moisture in and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave single servings covered with a damp paper towel, but oven reheating keeps that fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making the roasted garlic sauce?

Absolutely! While the homemade roasted garlic Alfredo sauce takes this dish to the next level with deep, fresh flavors, using a good-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce is a great shortcut and will still yield a creamy, satisfying meal.
How do I prevent the pasta shells from tearing when filling?

Be sure to cook the jumbo shells until just al dente—not too soft. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool them. Handle gently when stuffing to keep them intact.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables, spinach, or a ricotta and spinach mixture for a tasty vegetarian alternative that still feels hearty.
How long can I freeze the assembled dish?

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, use less cheese, or swap in ground turkey or chicken breast for shredded rotisserie chicken. Keep in mind the dish will be less rich but still flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Roasted Garlic Recipe is one of those dishes that always brings people together around the table. I love how it combines simplicity with comfort food elegance — and the roasted garlic sauce feels like a special touch that’s surprisingly easy to make. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and enjoy serving up this creamy, cheesy goodness as much as I do. It’s a true kitchen win that makes weeknights feel like a celebration!