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There's something inherently comforting about a well-prepared pasta dish, and Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells Delight is no exception. This dish has quickly become a favorite among home cooks looking for a meal that's not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor and texture. The combination of creamy filling and tender pasta shells creates a delightful experience that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table, making it an ideal choice for families, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in.

Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells Delight! This easy-to-make dish features jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and zesty ranch dressing. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, each bite offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. Add chicken for a protein boost or garnish with fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes for a beautiful presentation. Treat your loved ones to a comforting culinary experience that's sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz jumbo pasta shells

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup sour cream

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup ranch dressing

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried dill weed

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional for added protein)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until they are al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the shells well in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Creamy Filling: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing. Using a hand mixer or whisk, blend together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper, mixing until uniformly combined.

      Incorporate Cheese and Chicken: Gently fold the shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture. If desired, add the shredded cooked chicken for extra heartiness, mixing until everything is thoroughly incorporated.

        Stuff the Pasta Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the creamy ranch filling, ensuring they are generously packed. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish in a single layer.

          Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbling.

            Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant finish.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | serves 4-6

                - Presentation Tips: For an inviting presentation, serve the creamy ranch pasta shells on individual plates, drizzling a bit of extra ranch dressing around the perimeter and adding a sprig of fresh parsley on top of each serving.