Description
This delicious Taco Stuffed Shells recipe combines the comforting texture of jumbo pasta shells with a flavorful ground beef and creamy cheese filling seasoned with taco spices and salsa. Baked to perfection with a melted cheese topping, this dish is an easy and satisfying dinner that brings a fun Mexican-inspired twist to classic stuffed shells.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz Jumbo shells (about 18-20 shells)
Filling
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 4 oz Cream cheese
- 1 cup Salsa
- 1 oz Taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup Green onion (diced)
Topping
- 1/2 cup Mexican blend cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to get it ready for baking the stuffed shells later.
- Cook Pasta Shells: Prepare the jumbo shells according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, cream cheese, and salsa. Continue cooking and stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and the filling is well combined and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the diced green onion.
- Stuff Shells: Using a spoon, fill each cooked shell with the beef mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells evenly in a casserole dish.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the stuffed shells. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
- You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Make sure to not overcook the shells; they should be just tender enough to hold filling without breaking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding fresh cilantro or avocado slices on top before serving adds a fresh flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American