Description
Taco Stuffed Shells are a fun and flavorful twist on two comfort food favorites — tacos and pasta! Jumbo shells are filled with a zesty beef and cheese mixture, topped with salsa and melted cheese, then baked to perfection for a family-friendly dinner everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) salsa
- 1 cup (240ml) sour cream (optional for serving)
- 1/2 cup (50g) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup (30g) sliced black olives (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook jumbo shells in salted water until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and lay out on a baking sheet to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add taco seasoning and water. Stir and simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Spoon the taco meat mixture into each cooked shell and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread salsa evenly over the top of the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Top with diced tomatoes, green onions, olives, and cilantro before serving.
- Serve warm with sour cream or guacamole on the side.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, use spicy taco seasoning or add chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner protein option.
- Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
- Serve with Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American