The aroma of Taco Stuffed Shells wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with a blend of spiced beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa. As you bite into these delightful pasta shells, the explosion of flavors and textures dances on your palate like a mariachi band at a fiesta. taco pasta recipe.

This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or when you just want to impress your friends with minimal effort. The anticipation builds as you think about how much your loved ones will enjoy this delicious meal!

I remember the first time I made Taco Stuffed Shells for my friends. Their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took their first bites.

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Essential Ingredients

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

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: Look for sturdy shells that can hold all the yummy filling without cracking.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option or substitute turkey for a lighter version. pumpkin chili recipe turkey sweet potato chili.

• Taco Seasoning: Store-bought or homemade, this spice mix adds an authentic taco flavor to the filling.

• Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a wonderfully melty texture that everyone loves.

• Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa; it adds moisture and flavor to the dish.

• Sour Cream: This tangy topping complements the spicy flavors and adds creaminess to each bite. For more inspiration, check out this cajun lasagna recipe recipe.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it together

Boil the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add taco seasoning and water; stir until well combined. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked pasta shell and lovingly fill it with the seasoned beef mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Place filled shells in a greased baking dish.

Add Salsa and Cheese: Pour salsa over stuffed shells evenly, ensuring every shell gets some saucy goodness. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top for that golden melt.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Enjoying Taco Stuffed Shells is like hosting a mini taco party on your plate—deliciousness guaranteed! These flavorful bites will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta shells while browning the beef or turkey with seasonings. This keeps everything moving smoothly and ensures perfectly cooked ingredients.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground meat for plant-based options or add extra veggies like bell peppers. jalapeno popper wonton cups Top with different cheeses for a unique twist that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover taco stuffed shells in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Use large pasta shells for better filling capacity; they hold more deliciousness!
• Don’t overcook the shells; they should be al dente for best texture
• Lastly, let the dish rest after baking for more cohesive flavors when serving

Sometimes, I whip up taco stuffed shells when friends visit, and their smiles remind me that comfort food always wins hearts and stomachs!

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for taco stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well, just ensure proper cooking time.

What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for variety.

How can I make these shells spicier?

Add jalapeños or spicy salsa into the filling for an extra kick of heat!

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Taco Stuffed Shells

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• Author: Hellen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Taco Stuffed Shells are a delightful fusion of pasta and classic taco flavors, perfect for family dinners or social gatherings. These jumbo shells are filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa, creating a comforting dish that is both satisfying and visually appealing. Easy to prepare in under an hour, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while bringing smiles to the dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup salsa
• ½ cup sour cream

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Instructions

1. Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Stir in taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water; simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Fill each pasta shell with the seasoned beef mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
4. Pour salsa over the stuffed shells evenly, then sprinkle shredded cheeses on top.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover and bake for 20 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 75mg