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Delve into the world of comfort food with our delightful Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells recipe. This dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, combining the rich creaminess of ranch dressing with tender pasta shells. The result is a meal that is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for families and busy individuals alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that pleases everyone at the table or a dish to impress your guests, these creamy pasta shells are sure to hit the mark.

Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Ranch Pasta Shells recipe! This dish features tender jumbo pasta shells coated in a rich creamy ranch sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Packed with protein from chicken and vibrant vegetables, it's a wholesome meal that satisfies every craving. Learn about ingredient benefits, customization options, and serving tips to elevate this delightful dish into a family favorite that's sure to bring smiles at the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz jumbo pasta shells

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup ranch dressing

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried dill

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

      Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly blistered.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken (if using) and the creamy ranch mixture to the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.

          Mix in Pasta: Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, ensuring they are coated with the creamy ranch sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat the pasta thoroughly.

            Add Cheese: Sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

              Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy a delightful bowl of creamy ranch pasta shells!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings