Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking to wow your family with a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare, Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells are the answer! This comforting dish brings together the creamy goodness of ranch dressing, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a medley of cheeses, all nestled in giant pasta shells. The result is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of comfort food with a touch of gourmet flair. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, these stuffed shells are sure to be a hit. Not only is this dish incredibly satisfying, but it’s also customizable, making it perfect for those who like to add their own twist. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option, so you can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that promises to bring joy to every bite!

Ingredients

• 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, sour cream, cream cheese, and minced garlic. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Gently stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and bacon mixture, then place them in the prepared baking dish, open side up.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the stuffed shells.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

How to Prepare

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until they reach the perfect al dente texture. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the filling by combining shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a blend of cheeses with ranch dressing and garlic. Once the shells are cooked and cooled, carefully stuff them with the flavorful mixture. The shells should be generously filled but not overstuffed to prevent them from breaking. After arranging the filled shells in a baking dish, they are topped with more cheese and baked until the top is golden and bubbly. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Servings

• Serves: 6

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the mozzarella or cheddar with your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Gouda for a unique flavor twist.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q3: Can I freeze the stuffed shells? A: Yes, these shells freeze well. Assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding additional baking time as needed.

Q4: What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells? A: A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes to complement this rich and hearty meal.

Q5: How can I make this recipe healthier? A: You can use low-fat cheese, turkey bacon, and a light ranch dressing to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Shells are a dish that combines the heartiness of comfort food with the vibrant flavors of ranch dressing, chicken, and bacon. Whether you’re serving this to your family or entertaining guests, it’s sure to be a hit. The blend of creamy, cheesy filling inside tender pasta shells creates a meal that’s not only satisfying but also fun to eat. Best of all, the recipe is versatile enough to be tailored to your taste preferences, and it’s easy to make ahead of time for those busy days. So, the next time you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Print