These Taco Stuffed Shells are a fun and flavorful twist on two classic dishes—tacos and stuffed pasta shells! Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a savory taco meat and cheese filling, then baked to perfection with zesty salsa and melted cheese. This family-friendly meal is perfect for Taco Tuesday or any night!
📋 Ingredients:
- 1 box jumbo pasta shells (about 20-25 shells) 🍝
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey) 🍖
- 1 packet taco seasoning 🌮
- 1 cup water 💧
- 1 cup salsa 🍅
- 1/2 cup cream cheese 🧀
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese 🧀
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or corn, drained (optional) 🫘🌽
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped 🌿
- Fresh cilantro for garnish 🌿
- Sour cream, avocado, or extra salsa for serving (optional)
📝 Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Taco Filling:
- Cook the meat:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add seasoning:
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add cream cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until it melts and combines with the meat mixture. Remove from heat.
- Optional add-ins:
- If desired, stir in black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
3. Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Stuff the shells:
- Spoon the taco meat mixture into the cooked jumbo pasta shells and place them in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add salsa and cheese:
- Pour the salsa evenly over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
4. Bake:
- Bake the shells:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.
- Serve:
- Serve with sour cream, avocado, or extra salsa on the side for added flavor.
6. Enjoy!
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 30 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4-6 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal per serving
These Taco Stuffed Shells combine the best of both worlds with delicious taco flavors in a comforting pasta shell. It’s an easy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! 🌮🍝🧀