Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe

ByDorothy Miller
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Get ready for a fun and delicious dinner mashup with this Easy Taco Stuffed Shells recipe! It combines the classic flavors of a taco night with the comforting, cheesy goodness of baked pasta shells. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal the whole family will love. For another creative twist on a classic, try these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Tacos Recipe for dessert.

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Taco Stuffed Shells

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A delicious casserole dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef, salsa, and cheese, then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Author: Dorothy Miller
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x
  • Method: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 20 jumbo pasta shells (about 6 ounces)
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1.5 cups salsa, divided
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
  4. Add taco seasoning and water to the beef; stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in 1 cup salsa and 1 cup cheese.
  6. Spoon the beef mixture into each cooked shell and place in a 13×9-inch baking dish.
  7. Top shells with remaining salsa and cheese.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
  9. Garnish with green onions and serve with sour cream if desired.

Notes

Cook the shells according to package directions before stuffing to ensure they are tender enough. Do not overcook the pasta as it will continue to soften during baking. This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3
  • Sodium: 680
  • Fat: 16
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 22
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 24
  • Cholesterol: 75

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Taco Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This Taco Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based crumble are excellent substitutes. Simply cook your chosen protein with the taco seasoning as directed in the Taco Stuffed Shells recipe for a similar flavor and texture.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered, in the oven until warmed through.

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