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This cheesy, spicy twist on classic stuffed shells brings Cajun flair to your dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese filling, and zesty Cajun seasoning creates a comfort food dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new. I developed this recipe after visiting New Orleans and wanting to bring those bold flavors into my regular pasta night rotation.
The first time I made these shells for my family, they disappeared so quickly I barely got any myself. Now I always make a double batch and freeze half for busy weeknights when we need comfort food in a hurry.
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells: Choose ones that feel sturdy as they need to hold up to stuffing and baking
- Rotisserie chicken: Saves time and adds depth of flavor compared to plain boiled chicken
- Cajun seasoning: The heart of this recipe, look for brands with balanced heat and herbs
- Bell pepper: Adds sweetness and authentic Cajun trinity flavor
- Ricotta cheese: Creates creamy texture while holding the filling together
- Three cheese blend: Mozzarella for stretch, parmesan for umami, and ricotta for creaminess
- Heavy cream: Essential for creating a silky sauce that won’t break when baked
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil jumbo shells in heavily salted water for exactly 2 minutes less than package directions. They should be very al dente as they will continue cooking in the oven. Immediately rinse with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle for stuffing.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Sauté onions and peppers until they become translucent but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add garlic just at the end to prevent burning. This aromatic base flavors the entire dish, so take your time with this step. When you add the chicken and spices, allow them to warm together so the chicken absorbs the Cajun flavor.
- Make the Sauce:
- Create a proper roux by cooking the butter and flour together until it smells slightly nutty but hasn’t browned, about 60 seconds. The sauce thickening happens gradually as you whisk in the liquids, pour them slowly in a steady stream while whisking constantly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when properly thickened.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon filling generously into each shell; the pasta will appear overstuffed but will settle during baking. Arrange shells in sauce with the openings facing upward to catch extra sauce and cheese. Cover tightly with foil for the first baking phase to trap moisture, then uncover to allow cheese to develop golden spots.
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The smoked paprika in this recipe was actually a happy accident the first time I made it. I grabbed it instead of regular paprika but loved the subtle smokiness it added so much that it became a permanent addition. My Louisiana-born neighbor gave it his seal of approval, which was the ultimate compliment.
Storage and Reheating
These stuffed shells actually improve in flavor after a day in the refrigerator as the spices meld. Store leftover shells in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the container to revive the sauce that may have thickened in the refrigerator. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Make-Ahead and Freezing
This dish excels as a freezer meal. Prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake as directed, adding approximately 15 minutes to the covered baking time. Always bake from cold, not room temperature, for food safety.
Spice Level Adjustments
The beauty of Cajun cuisine lies in its adaptability to your heat preference. For a milder version, cut the Cajun seasoning in half and increase the paprika. For those who enjoy more heat, add a diced jalapeño to the pepper and onion mix or incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne into the sauce. Remember that the dairy components will temper some heat, so you can be slightly more generous with spices than you might normally.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly, saving time and adding flavor to the filling.
- → What can I use instead of jumbo shells?
If jumbo shells are unavailable, try using manicotti or layering the filling with lasagna pasta.
- → Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, assemble the shells and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or paprika to make it spicier or milder to suit your tastes.
- → What sides pair well with stuffed shells?
Serve with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete, balanced meal.