Name: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 box jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups shredded chicken breast; 1.5 oz Frank’s Red Hot Sauce; 16 oz cottage cheese; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 cup shredded cheese; chopped green onions (optional for serving)

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There’s something heartwarming about gathering friends and family around a comforting dish like Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells. I can still remember the first time I made these delectable shells for a game night. The aroma of tender pasta and spicy chicken filled my kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that drew everyone in. As we settled down to eat, the excitement in the room was palpable, everyone eager to dig into these cheesy, flavorful stuffed shells. The combination of creamy cottage cheese, shredded chicken, and the kick of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce made each bite a delightful experience. I love how easy they are to prepare, allowing for quality time with loved ones instead of fussing over dinner. These shells are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll quickly become a favorite.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why You Need This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Comforting Flavor

One of the most endearing aspects of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells is the perfect blend of flavors. The spiciness of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce balances beautifully with the creamy texture of the cottage cheese, creating a rich filling that hugs each shell. This combination is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, making it exciting and flavorful.

Easy Preparation

You’ll appreciate how simple these stuffed shells are to prepare. With basic ingredients that come together effortlessly, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s all about assembling the ingredients, mixing them, and letting the oven do the work! This makes it ideal for busy weeknights.

Perfect for Sharing

There’s something about a dish like Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells that screams sharing. Whether it’s a family gathering or a friendly potluck, people love diving into a big dish of stuffed shells. You can easily double the recipe, ensuring that there’s more than enough to go around.

Customizable to Your Taste

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to spice levels and flavors. This dish is highly customizable! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the hot sauce or even try different sauces altogether. You can also mix in different cheeses or add veggies for an extra crunch.

Great for Leftovers

One of my favorite aspects of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells is that they make for fantastic leftovers. The flavors deepen overnight, and they reheat beautifully, making it convenient for lunch the next day. You’ll find yourself looking forward to enjoying them again!

Family-Friendly

Getting kids to eat can be a challenge, but the cheesy, flavorful nature of these stuffed shells makes them a hit with little ones. They’ll love the fun of digging into their own stuffed shell, and you can feel good knowing they’re eating something packed with protein!

Shopping List for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

When it comes to the ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells, you’ll find that they work incredibly well together, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect stuffed shell experience. From the hearty jumbo pasta shells to the creamy filling, every bite is a delicious blend of comfort and zest.

1 box (16 oz) jumbo pasta shells – These large shells are the perfect vehicle for holding the spicy filling, providing a delightful bite.
2 cups shredded chicken breast – The protein in this dish, shredded chicken adds heartiness and a lovely texture to the filling.
1.5 oz container Frank’s Red Hot Sauce – This iconic hot sauce brings the signature spicy kick to the dish, elevating the flavor profile.
16 oz cottage cheese – Creamy and slightly tangy, cottage cheese is a great base for the filling, making it rich without being overly heavy.
1/4 cup melted butter – This adds richness and moisture to the filling, ensuring every bite is luscious.
1 cup shredded cheese – Melting cheese on top creates a deliciously gooey layer that ties the whole dish together.
Chopped green onions – These are optional but add a fresh, crunchy element that enhances the overall flavor.

Recipe Steps for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Making Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience that brings a bit of excitement to your cooking routine. Let’s get started on this delicious creation that will soon be a family favorite! Follow these easy steps to bring this dish to life.

Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, usually about 9 to 10 minutes. Drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This is a little trick I like to do; sometimes, while you prep, the shells can stick together. If that happens, a quick rinse will solve the problem.
Next, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it with nonstick cooking spray. This helps to prevent the shells from sticking and makes for an easier clean-up later.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, your favorite hot sauce, cottage cheese, and melted butter. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, ensuring that every piece of chicken is coated in that spicy goodness.
Carefully spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into the cooked pasta shells. Place each stuffed shell into the prepared baking dish, making sure they are nice and cozy together.
Once all the shells are stuffed, take a moment to sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese. Don’t be shy here; if you love cheese, feel free to cover the entire surface. It’ll melt beautifully and create a luxurious topping.
Now, pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the center is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary.
When they’re done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top, which not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the dish.
Serve these scrumptious Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells while they’re warm, and enjoy the delighted faces around the table. This dish is sure to become a new favorite!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose the Right Shells: Ensure you’re using jumbo shells, as they are large enough to hold a generous amount of filling without breaking apart.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the shells just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven, preventing them from becoming mushy.
Mix it Up: Feel free to experiment with different sauces or cheeses in the filling to find your perfect combination.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking. Just adjust the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

Variations to Try

When it comes to Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells, the possibilities are endless! Each variation can offer something uniquely delicious, so feel free to experiment. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Add Blue Cheese: Crumble some blue cheese into the filling for an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the hot sauce.
Ranch Dressing: Mixing in ranch dressing can provide a creamy contrast to the heat of the sauce and is a favorite for many!
Vegetarian Version: Instead of chicken, try a filling made with sautéed vegetables or beans for a meat-free option.
Extra Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, don’t hesitate to add more hot sauce to the filling or drizzle it on top before serving.
Cheese Swap: Replace the cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture or a blend of cheeses for a richer taste.
Serving Size: Consider making mini stuffed shells as appetizers for parties or gatherings for a fun twist!

What to Pair With Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

When serving Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells, it’s essential to consider side dishes and accompaniments that complement the rich flavors of the dish. Here are some delicious ideas:

Classic Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad pairs perfectly with the savory shells, balancing the richness with its fresh greens and creamy dressing.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting side that everyone loves, perfect for sopping up any sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy touch, providing color and nutrients to your meal.
Vegetable Platter: A platter of fresh veggies with ranch or blue cheese dip is a great way to offer a refreshing contrast to the heat of the shells.
Perfect for Game Day: These stuffed shells are fantastic for game day gatherings, making them a hit at parties!
Casual Family Dinner: They make a satisfying meal for a relaxed family dinner, providing comfort and satisfaction to everyone.

FAQ

Absolutely! While jumbo pasta shells are traditional for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells, you can experiment with other pasta shapes such as manicotti or even lasagna sheets. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. The key is to have a pasta that can hold the filling well.

The spiciness of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells mainly comes from the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce. If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce in the filling. You can also try using a milder sauce or mix in some ranch dressing to tone down the spice while still keeping the flavor.

Yes! You can prepare Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells ahead of time. Assemble the shells and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to make them further in advance, consider freezing them. Just bake them from frozen, adding a bit more time to the baking process.

There are many great options to serve with Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells. Classic sides include a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. These sides not only complement the flavors of the dish but also enhance the overall meal experience. You could even serve them as part of a game day spread!

Conclusion

The Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are truly special, combining comfort food with a spicy twist that everyone loves. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. The joy of sharing a delicious meal with family and friends is unbeatable, and this dish will make those moments even more memorable.