Irresistible Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells

Introduction

If you’re searching for a dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory bacon, look no further! Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells will become your next favorite comfort food. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also deliver a warm, hearty feeling that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine sitting down with a plateful of these delicious shells, diving into each bite. It’s pure bliss!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the necessary components for our Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Timing

Timing is everything in cooking! Here’s how long you should plan for:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

With this timing, you can easily whip up a delightful meal even on a busy weeknight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get down to business! Follow these easy steps to create your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Remember, you want them firm enough to hold the filling!

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is mixed well. This filling is the heart of your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells!

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, start stuffing them with the chicken and bacon mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to fill each shell generously. Don’t be shy; this is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, then drizzle more ranch dressing over the top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about what’s inside these tasty shells. Here’s a breakdown per serving (estimated for 4 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

Keep in mind that these values may vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells a bit lighter, consider these alternatives:

• Use whole wheat pasta shells to increase fiber content.
• Swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon to reduce fat.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese and ranch dressing.
• Add spinach or other vegetables to the filling for extra nutrients.

These changes will help you enjoy this dish without the guilt!

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells are fantastic on their own, but here are some delightful side dishes that pair well:

• Garlic bread for that extra crunch.
• A fresh garden salad to balance the richness.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color.

Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best chefs make mistakes! Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells:

• Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy shells. Keep them al dente!
• Not allowing the filling to cool slightly before stuffing can result in a messy situation.
• Skipping the foil when baking can cause the cheese to burn.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll achieve perfect stuffed shells every time!

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells:

• Cool the dish completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months!

To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they’re an experience! With their creamy, cheesy filling and savory flavor, they will surely please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge!

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FAQs

Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What if I don’t have ranch dressing?

No problem! You can use any creamy dressing you have on hand, such as blue cheese or Caesar dressing, for a different flavor.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap chicken for ground turkey or even shredded beef. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

Now that you have all the information you need to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or those nights when you just want to treat yourself. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about these stuffed shells long after the last bite!