Name: Ricotta Paccheri: A Comforting Italian Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz paccheri pasta; 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg

Print Recipe

When you take a bite of Ricotta Paccheri, the creamy ricotta fills the hearty pasta tubes, creating a delightful explosion of flavor. light and zesty dessert option The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist diving in right away.

This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. It evokes memories of laughter and warmth, as everyone gathers around the table to savor every cheesy, delicious bite. perfect summer side dish

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Ricotta Paccheri recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
The luscious flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
With its vibrant presentation, it’s sure to wow your dinner guests
It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family meal or an elegant gathering

I remember the first time I made Ricotta Paccheri; my friends were raving about it all night long!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Paccheri Pasta: These large pasta tubes are the heart of the dish; choose high-quality ones for the best texture. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for fresh ricotta; its creamy richness is key to achieving that irresistible filling. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Fresh Spinach: Use vibrant green spinach to add color and nutrients; sauté it briefly before mixing.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for a savory kick that complements the milky ricotta beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will enhance the flavor and aroma; don’t skimp on this!
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps with sautéing.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for bringing out all the flavors in your ingredients.
Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the ricotta filling; just a little goes a long way.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the garlic finely and wash your spinach thoroughly so you’re ready to go.

Cook the Paccheri Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add paccheri and cook until al dente, usually about 12-14 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, about one minute. Toss in spinach until wilted but still vibrant green.

Mix Ricotta Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, grated parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy.

Stuff Paccheri with Filling: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked paccheri with the ricotta mixture generously. Don’t be shy; you want them nicely packed!

Bake Your Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place stuffed paccheri in a baking dish with marinara sauce at the bottom. delicious stuffed chicken recipe Top with more sauce and sprinkle additional parmesan cheese.

After about 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll have bubbly, golden cheesy perfection waiting for you! Enjoy every last bite of this delightful Ricotta Paccheri!

You Must Know

Ricotta Paccheri is a delightful dish that combines pasta’s comforting embrace with the creamy richness of ricotta
You can adjust the flavors, from zesty to mild, ensuring every bite is an experience worth savoring
The aroma while cooking will make your kitchen feel like an Italian trattoria!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your paccheri until al dente. While they cook, sauté garlic in olive oil for a fragrant foundation before adding tomatoes and ricotta. Combine everything just before serving for the freshest taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor. Swap out ricotta for mascarpone or goat cheese if you want a different texture. Even adding sautéed veggies can elevate this dish to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When cooking paccheri, ensure they are well-salted; it enhances flavor immensely
Don’t rush combining ingredients; allow them to meld perfectly for richer taste
Always serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience

It’s funny how my first attempt at making Ricotta Paccheri turned into a kitchen disaster! My friend’s laughter still echoes as I scrambled to save dinner but ended up creating something magical instead.

FAQs

FAQ

How do I know when my paccheri is al dente?

To check if your paccheri is al dente, taste a piece about 1-2 minutes before the package’s recommended cooking time ends. It should be firm yet tender, providing a slight resistance when bitten.

Can I use store-bought ricotta?

Absolutely! Store-bought ricotta works well in Ricotta Paccheri recipes. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor and texture. You can also try blending it with herbs or spices for added depth.

What sides pair well with Ricotta Paccheri?

vegetarian side dish idea.

A light salad dressed with vinaigrette complements Ricotta Paccheri beautifully. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread works wonders in soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Enjoy the scrumptious combination!