Taco Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
- 20-24 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion
diced
- 3 cloves garlic
minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
1 ounce
- 1 can red enchilada sauce
10 ounce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- optional toppings: sour cream
fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, guacamole
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
- 2
Cook the pasta shells in well-salted water according to the package instructions until 2 minutes before al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- 3
While the pasta is cooking, warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion and cook, stirring frequently. When the beef is halfway cooked, add minced garlic and taco seasoning and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft.
- 4
Stir in the red enchilada sauce, then simmer for 5-10 minutes until some of the liquid has evaporated.
- 5
Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese in small handfuls until melted.
- 6
Fill each pasta shell with the beef mixture and arrange them in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and the Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
- 7
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 8
Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving with any desired optional toppings. Enjoy!
Taco Stuffed Shells
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 21 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a comforting family meal that perfectly blends savory taco flavors with hearty pasta? These Taco Stuffed Shells deliver a crowd-pleasing dish that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. You'll love how quickly this recipe comes together for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
What makes these Taco Stuffed Shells truly shine is the thoughtful combination of classic comforts. Tender jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with perfectly seasoned ground beef and a blend of rich, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. It's all enveloped in a zesty red enchilada sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
When you dive into these shells, expect a burst of flavor in every bite. The savory, spiced ground beef filling is wonderfully complemented by the creamy, gooey cheese, all nestled within tender pasta. The vibrant enchilada sauce adds a delightful tang, while optional toppings like cool sour cream, fresh cilantro, vibrant pico de gallo, or creamy guacamole offer bright, refreshing contrasts. This dish is designed to be substantial and incredibly satisfying, a true comfort food experience.
Feel free to make these Taco Stuffed Shells your own with a few simple tweaks. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could also add finely diced bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture for extra vegetables and texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, use a hot enchilada sauce or add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling.
These Taco Stuffed Shells are ideal for a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a gathering with friends. Serve them hot straight from the oven, perhaps alongside a simple green salad to complete the meal.