Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor, Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri is the answer. The creamy ricotta filling pairs beautifully with fresh parsley, all wrapped in the large, pillowy paccheri pasta. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and herby—topped off with a burst of tomato sauce. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love It

• Rich & Creamy Filling: The ricotta and parsley filling inside the paccheri is smooth and full of flavor, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Hearty Pasta: Paccheri, with its large, tube-like shape, makes each bite a satisfying and filling experience.
• Simple Yet Flavorful: With just a few basic ingredients, this dish packs a punch in flavor, making it a great weeknight dinner or a dish for entertaining.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is perfect for vegetarians, offering a delicious, meat-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients for Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri

Paccheri Pasta

The star of the dish! Paccheri is a large, ridged pasta that holds up beautifully to the rich ricotta filling.

Ricotta Cheese

Creamy, mild, and slightly tangy, ricotta forms the perfect base for the filling.

Fresh Parsley

Herbaceous and fresh, parsley balances the richness of the ricotta and adds a burst of freshness.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated Parmesan adds a savory, nutty depth to the ricotta filling and is perfect for topping the dish.

Egg

The egg helps bind the ricotta mixture together, making it easier to stuff the pasta.

Garlic

Garlic provides aromatic, savory depth to the dish, infusing the pasta sauce with flavor.

Olive Oil

Used for sautéing the garlic and creating a light sauce to coat the pasta.

Tomato Sauce

A simple marinara or tomato sauce is perfect for this dish, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the creamy ricotta.

Salt & Pepper

For seasoning the filling and sauce to perfection.

Instructions

1. Cook the Paccheri

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the paccheri according to package instructions, about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the filling is smooth and well-combined.

3. Stuff the Paccheri

Using a spoon or piping bag, stuff the cooked paccheri with the ricotta and parsley filling. Be generous with the filling, ensuring each piece is well-packed.

4. Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Dish

Add the stuffed paccheri to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve

Transfer the paccheri to serving plates and top with additional grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)

Calories: 400
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

• Spinach & Ricotta: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the ricotta mixture for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Meat Lover’s Twist: For a meaty version, sauté ground beef or sausage and mix it into the ricotta filling.
• Baked Version: After stuffing the paccheri, layer them in a baking dish with tomato sauce, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

How to Serve Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri

• With Garlic Bread: Serve this dish alongside some crispy garlic bread to soak up any extra tomato sauce.
• With a Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the creamy pasta.
• As a Main Course: This hearty dish is filling on its own, but it pairs well with a light appetizer, such as bruschetta, for a full Italian meal.

Additional Tips

• Don’t Overstuff the Paccheri: While it’s tempting to load up on the ricotta filling, be careful not to overstuff the paccheri, as it can cause them to break apart during cooking.
• Keep the Sauce Light: The tomato sauce should complement, not overpower, the creamy ricotta filling. Keep it simple with just a little garlic and olive oil.
• Serve Immediately: Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri is best enjoyed fresh, while the pasta is warm and the filling is soft and creamy.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: If you can’t find paccheri, you can substitute with another large pasta shape, such as cannelloni or manicotti.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can stuff the paccheri and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, assemble and heat the dish in the skillet.

Q3: Can I freeze Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed paccheri before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw and bake or simmer in sauce.

Q4: Can I add meat to the filling?
A4: Absolutely! Ground beef, sausage, or chicken would be a great addition to the ricotta filling.

Q5: Is there a gluten-free version of this dish?
A5: Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Be sure to check the package for cooking instructions, as gluten-free pasta may require different timing.

Q6: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
A6: While fresh parsley is preferred for the best flavor, you can use dried parsley in a pinch. Just be sure to use about 1/3 of the amount.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Leftover Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra sauce.

Q8: Can I make the ricotta filling without egg?
A8: Yes, you can omit the egg. The ricotta filling will still be creamy and delicious, though the texture may be a little softer.

Q9: Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?
A9: Yes, you can try substituting part of the ricotta with mascarpone for an even richer filling, or use mozzarella for a more melty texture.

Q10: What is the best way to reheat Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri?
A10: Reheat the paccheri in a skillet with a little bit of extra sauce, or in the oven covered with foil to keep the pasta moist.

Conclusion

Ricotta & Parsley Paccheri is an incredibly satisfying pasta dish that combines creamy ricotta with fresh parsley, all stuffed into hearty paccheri pasta and simmered in a light tomato sauce. It’s simple, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

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