Ricotta Paccheri

The moment you take a bite of Ricotta Paccheri, your taste buds will dance with joy. Imagine pasta tubes, soft yet sturdy, filled to the brim with creamy ricotta mixed with vibrant herbs and spices, creating a flavor explosion that warms your heart and soul. finish with raspberry crumble bars The aroma wafts through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table in eager anticipation.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family together. Picture a cozy Sunday dinner where laughter fills the air, and the Ricotta Paccheri takes center stage, celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting textures. a zesty lemon cheesecake Trust me; this is a dish you’ll want to share—preferably with folks who appreciate good food and enjoy second helpings. For more inspiration, check out this Heavenly Lemon Tiramisu Cake recipe.

I remember the first time I made Ricotta Paccheri for my friends—they devoured it faster than I could say “pasta.” Their delighted faces were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Paccheri Pasta: Choose large pasta tubes that hold fillings perfectly; they should be firm yet tender when cooked.
• Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta for a creamy texture and mild flavor; it’s the star of this dish!
• Fresh Basil: A handful of aromatic basil adds a burst of freshness; don’t skimp on this flavorful herb.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth and saltiness; opt for freshly grated for best results.
• Tomato Sauce: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought sauce for convenience; it should be rich and tangy.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavors beautifully; sauté until fragrant to unlock its essence. savory garlic butter steak bites.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil elevates the dish’s richness; always choose extra virgin for best quality.
• Pine Nuts (optional): Toasted pine nuts add crunch and nuttiness; they’re not necessary but highly recommended!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Raspberry Rolls recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

First things first: let’s gather our ingredients and set up our cooking space!

Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add paccheri pasta carefully so they don’t stick together. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Sauté Garlic and Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned—about 1-2 minutes—then stir in your tomato sauce until heated through.

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with finely chopped basil, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until well combined. pair it with a spring roll bowl It should be creamy with hints of herbaceous goodness.

Stuff the Paccheri: Drain your cooked paccheri carefully. Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each tube generously with the ricotta mixture—don’t be shy!

Create Your Layering Masterpiece: Spread some tomato sauce at the bottom of an oven-safe dish. Arrange your stuffed paccheri in a single layer over the sauce, then top with more sauce and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake covered for 20 minutes; then uncover and bake another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

And there you have it! Serve hot with additional fresh basil sprinkled on top for an inviting presentation.

Enjoy every delightful bite of your homemade Ricotta Paccheri—a dish that promises warmth, joy, and plenty of happy memories around your dinner table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling water for the paccheri while preparing the ricotta filling. Cook the pasta al dente, drain, and fill it with the creamy ricotta mixture, creating flavor-packed bites of joy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Ricotta Paccheri by adding spinach, herbs, or even some spicy sausage. A sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking adds that irresistible golden crust.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that the cheese stays melty and delicious.

Sharing this dish reminds me of my cousin’s wedding when I crafted my first Ricotta Paccheri, receiving rave reviews from everyone at the table!

FAQ

What can I substitute for ricotta in Ricotta Paccheri?

You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone as tasty alternatives.

How do I prevent my paccheri from sticking together?

Toss cooked paccheri with olive oil immediately after draining to keep them separated.

Can I freeze leftover Ricotta Paccheri?

Yes, you can freeze it; just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.