Description
Chicken Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Alfredo Sauce is a comforting and wholesome Italian-inspired dish featuring tender large pasta shells filled with a savory mix of shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy plant-based cheese. Smothered in a luscious natural Alfredo sauce with a perfect smooth texture, this recipe offers creamy comfort and rich flavors ideal for any weeknight or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Shells
- 12 large pasta shells
Filling
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup plant-based cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 cups natural Alfredo sauce (plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Garnishes and Herbs
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Additional plant-based cheese for topping
- Crushed black pepper or red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta Shells: Boil large pasta shells in salted water until al dente, meaning cooked but still firm to the bite. Drain and allow them to cool slightly for easy handling while stuffing.
- Cook the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add shredded chicken and fresh spinach, stirring until spinach wilts. Season with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and pepper.
- Mix the Filling: Transfer the chicken and spinach mixture to a bowl. Fold in plant-based cheese and a pinch of nutmeg to create a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Gently warm the natural Alfredo sauce with the natural gelling agent, stirring occasionally to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Stuff and Bake: Fill each pasta shell generously with the chicken and spinach filling. Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish, pour Alfredo sauce evenly over the top, and sprinkle additional plant-based cheese and fresh herbs. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Cook pasta carefully to avoid overcooking, which may cause shells to break during stuffing.
- Use fresh spinach for better wilting and vibrant color.
- Warm Alfredo sauce gradually to keep it silky and smooth.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor absorption.
- Adding fresh herbs at the end enhances flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: chicken stuffed shells, spinach, Alfredo sauce, plant-based cheese, comfort food, Italian recipe, baked pasta shells, creamy sauce
