Name: Taco Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 taco seasoning packet; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup corn kernels, canned or frozen; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 cup shredded lettuce, for serving; Sour cream, for serving

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:

Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 40 min

how to make Taco Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 taco seasoning packet
1 cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup corn kernels, canned or frozen
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 cup shredded lettuce, for serving
Sour cream, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa, mixing well.
Add the black beans, corn, and green onions to the mixture, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the taco filling and place them in a baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the stuffed shells.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with shredded lettuce and a dollop of sour cream.

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be firm enough to hold the filling.
You can prepare the filling a day ahead and keep it in the fridge for easy assembly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Stuffed Shells are a fun and tasty twist on traditional tacos. They combine the flavors of your favorite taco ingredients in a pasta shell, making it a family-friendly dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner or special gathering.

how to serve Taco Stuffed Shells

Serve the stuffed shells hot from the oven. Top with shredded lettuce and a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. You can also add sliced jalapeños or diced tomatoes for a fresh finishing touch.

how to store Taco Stuffed Shells

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

tips to make Taco Stuffed Shells

If you want a little heat, add diced jalapeños to the filling.
For a vegetarian version, use lentils or chopped mushrooms instead of meat.
Try different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.

variation

You can change the meat to ground chicken or tofu for a plant-based option. Additionally, feel free to swap out the black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

Nutrition Information:

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Customization Ideas

You can customize Taco Stuffed Shells by adding your favorite ingredients like diced bell peppers, olives, or corn. Try various sauces instead of salsa, like enchilada sauce or a creamy ranch dressing.

Disclaimer:

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and adapt the recipe as necessary for dietary restrictions.

why make this recipe

Taco Stuffed Shells are easy to make and provide a satisfying meal that combines the beloved flavors of tacos with the hearty goodness of pasta. It’s a great way to get the family together for a fun dinner experience.

FAQs

Can I make Taco Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling the day before and assemble the shells when you’re ready to bake.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins.
Can I freeze Taco Stuffed Shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked or cooked shells. Just make sure to use an airtight container.
How do I prevent the pasta shells from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, make sure to toss the cooked shells in a little olive oil after draining.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese varieties for different flavors.