Taco Stuffed Shells

Take your taco night to the next level with Taco Stuffed Shells, a delicious fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisine. This dish combines tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with seasoned taco meat, topped with melted cheese, and finished with fresh toppings, creating a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is a creative way to enjoy the bold flavors of tacos in a new and exciting form. Ready to spice up your menu with a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? Let’s dive into this cheesy, meaty, and utterly delightful recipe.

Cheesy, Meaty, and Packed with Flavor: A Creative Twist on Tacos

Taco Stuffed Shells aren’t just a meal; they’re a culinary experience that brings together the comfort of baked pasta and the zest of tacos. With bold seasonings, creamy cheese, and fresh garnishes, this dish has something for everyone.

Here’s how to prepare this flavorful casserole while ensuring every shell is perfectly stuffed and baked to golden perfection.

Pro Tips for Perfect Taco Stuffed Shells:

1. Cook Shells Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta shells to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
2. Season Well: The taco seasoning gives the beef its signature flavor, so don’t skimp on it.
3. Even Stuffing: Use a spoon to fill each shell evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Layer Salsa Generously: Spread salsa on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
5. Garnish for Freshness: Top with green onions, black olives, and serve with sour cream for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Equipment: Baking dish, skillet, large pot

This recipe brings a bold and cheesy twist to your pasta night, creating a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

• 24 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• Sour cream and additional salsa for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat, then add taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Mix in Salsa: Stir in 1/2 cup of salsa with the seasoned beef and remove from heat.
4. Prepare Baking Dish: Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of salsa on the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Stuff the Shells: Fill each pasta shell with the taco meat mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
6. Add Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle the stuffed shells with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Top with chopped green onions and sliced black olives.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve: Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and extra salsa on the side.

Ready to Enjoy!

Your Taco Stuffed Shells are ready to impress! This dish is perfect for a fun family dinner or as a unique take on classic tacos. Enjoy the gooey cheese, flavorful meat, and satisfying texture of the stuffed shells, and watch it become a household favorite. Dive in and savor every bite!

Print