Embark on a culinary adventure with this Mexican stuffed shells recipe, a fusion of comforting pasta and vibrant Mexican spices. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish brings a burst of flavor to the table.
Combining tender jumbo pasta shells with a savory beef and bean filling, topped with melty cheese and tangy salsa, these stuffed shells are irresistibly delicious. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe.
Cheesy and Flavorful: Your New Favorite Mexican Pasta Recipe
These Mexican stuffed shells are a delightful twist on traditional stuffed pasta. The seasoned beef, creamy beans, and gooey cheese blend harmoniously for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta so it holds its shape while baking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh salsa for a bold and tangy flavor.
- Stuff Generously: Fill each shell to the brim for a hearty and satisfying bite.
- Cover While Baking: If needed, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
- Add Toppings: Customize with sour cream, diced tomatoes, or avocado for extra flair.

Mexican Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Equipment: Large pot, skillet, 9×13 inch baking dish
With these simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 18-20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 2 cups salsa, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sour cream for serving
Directions:
- Prepare the Pasta Shells:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly. - Cook the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. - Add the Beans and Salsa:
Stir in the refried beans and 1 cup of salsa, mixing until fully incorporated. - Assemble the Dish:
Spread the remaining 1 cup of salsa evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and bean mixture and arrange them in the dish. - Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the stuffed shells. - Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve hot with sour cream on the side for dipping.
Ready to Indulge
Mexican stuffed shells are a hearty, comforting dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. This crowd-pleasing recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it an instant favorite for any occasion.
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Mexican Stuffed Shells
With these simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful dinner ready in no time.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
- 18–20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 2 cups salsa, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pasta Shells:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly. -
Cook the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. -
Add the Beans and Salsa:
Stir in the refried beans and 1 cup of salsa, mixing until fully incorporated. -
Assemble the Dish:
Spread the remaining 1 cup of salsa evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and bean mixture and arrange them in the dish. -
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the stuffed shells. -
Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve hot with sour cream on the side for dipping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
