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Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells are more than just a dish; they represent the perfect blend of comfort and flavor that many of us seek in our culinary endeavors. This delightful recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes a sense of nostalgia, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The creaminess of the ranch dressing combined with the tender pasta shells creates a satisfying meal that is both delicious and visually appealing.

Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells

Discover the joy of Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells, a dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe features tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ranch mixture of cream cheese, cheese, and optional chicken and spinach. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit various tastes, these delicious shells are sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories around the table. Enjoy this satisfying meal that brings warmth and happiness to any occasion!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup cooked chicken, diced (optional)

1 cup fresh spinach (or you can use frozen, thawed and drained)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.

      Add Remaining Ingredients: Gently fold in the cooked chicken, fresh spinach, mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the ranch mixture. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

        Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a tablespoon, carefully stuff each pasta shell with the creamy ranch filling. Place the filled shells in a greased baking dish.

          Create the Sauce: To bring everything together, drizzle or spoon any remaining ranch filling or a bit of ranch dressing over the top of the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the tops are slightly golden and bubbly.

              Garnish and Serve: Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh touch.

                Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells warm and enjoy the creamy, savory flavors with your family or guests!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6