Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells bring together the best of both worlds: the bold flavors of tacos and the comforting nature of baked pasta. Jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a mixture of taco-seasoned ground beef, salsa, and gooey cheddar cheese. After stuffing the shells, they're topped with even more salsa and cheese, then baked to melty perfection. This dish is a hit for family dinners or gatherings, offering a unique twist on traditional taco night. You can easily customize the filling with your favorite taco toppings or switch out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Serve these shells with a side of guacamole or sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.
If you love tacos and pasta, this recipe is the perfect fusion of both! These Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells bring together the bold flavors of taco-seasoned beef with the comfort of cheesy baked pasta. Let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious dish.
INGREDIENTS
- Jumbo Pasta Shells (12 ounces): The perfect vessel for holding the taco filling; cook them until just tender.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): Choose lean ground beef for a hearty and flavorful filling.
- Taco Seasoning (1 packet): A blend of spices that gives the beef its signature taco flavor.
- Water (2/3 cup): Helps to mix and dissolve the taco seasoning into the beef.
- Jarred Salsa (1 1/2 cups, divided): Adds a tangy and slightly spicy tomato base to the filling and topping.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, divided): Melts into the filling and on top of the shells, adding a rich, cheesy flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when you need to bake the shells. While the oven is heating, prepare a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
- Step 2:
- In the same pot, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until it’s fully browned. Make sure to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Step 3:
- Add the taco seasoning and 2/3 cup of water to the cooked beef. Stir everything together until the seasoning is evenly distributed, and continue to cook until the water has evaporated, leaving you with a well-seasoned beef mixture.
- Step 4:
- Stir in 1 cup of jarred salsa and 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the seasoned beef mixture. This combination creates a rich, cheesy filling with a touch of tanginess from the salsa, perfect for stuffing into the pasta shells.
- Step 5:
- Take each cooked jumbo pasta shell and fill it with the beef mixture, using a spoon to pack it in well. Place each stuffed shell into a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Step 6:
- Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, top them with the remaining salsa and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Step 7:
- Bake the covered dish in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like your cheese a little crispy, you can remove the foil in the last 2 minutes of baking to let it brown slightly. Serve the shells hot and enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells immediately after baking, while the cheese is still melty and the shells are warm.
- Pair them with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the shells in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier version, try adding some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture before stuffing the shells.
- You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef without sacrificing flavor.
- If you prefer a more traditional taco taste, swap out the cheddar cheese for a Mexican blend cheese or Monterey Jack.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Rick Bayless: "Don’t be afraid to experiment with different salsas to find the one that best matches your taste. A smoky chipotle salsa can add a nice depth of flavor to the dish."
- Chef Rachael Ray: "When cooking pasta, always undercook it by a minute or two if it’s going to be baked later. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming too soft."
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis: "Adding a bit of freshly chopped cilantro over the finished dish can brighten up the flavors and add a touch of freshness."