Taco Stuffed Shells offer a creative twist on two beloved classics: tacos and stuffed pasta shells. This dish combines jumbo pasta shells filled with a flavorful mixture reminiscent of taco filling. Typically, seasoned ground beef or turkey is combined with taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, corn, and shredded cheese to create a hearty and savory filling. The cooked shells are then stuffed with this mixture and arranged in a baking dish. Additional cheese and salsa are often layered on top before baking until bubbly and golden. The result is a delicious fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, with each bite offering a satisfying combination of pasta, seasoned meat, melted cheese, and zesty salsa. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells:
16 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 cup water
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Sauce:
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup salsa
For Topping (Optional):
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced black olives
Diced tomatoes
Sliced green onions
Sour cream
Preparation
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the taco seasoning mix and water to the cooked beef. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, sour cream, and salsa to make the sauce.
Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the taco-seasoned ground beef mixture and place them in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the shells are heated through.
Optionally, garnish your Taco Stuffed Shells with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
Serve your delicious and flavorful Taco Stuffed Shells, and enjoy a Mexican-inspired twist on stuffed pasta shells!
