Taco Stuffed Shells
Taco Stuffed Shells combine the best of both worlds: the beloved flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of Italian pasta. This dish features jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a flavorful ground beef and refried bean mixture, topped with cheese and salsa, and baked to perfection. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
-16 jumbo pasta shells
-1 pound ground beef
-1 (1.25 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
-1 cup water
-1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
-¾ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
-1 (16 ounce) jar salsa, divided
-¼ cup sliced green onion
-¼ cup shredded Cheddar cheese (for topping)
-½ cup sour cream (Optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add Seasoning and Water: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
3. Prepare the Filling
Add Refried Beans: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the can of refried beans until well combined.
Add Cheese: Mix in ¾ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
4. Stuff the Shells
Stuff the Shells: Spoon the beef and bean mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Arrange the stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add Salsa: Pour half of the salsa (about 1 cup) over the stuffed shells.
5. Bake
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions and additional salsa if desired.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
Tips:
Cheese Options: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Mexican blend for added flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or more refried beans for a vegetarian version.
Variations:
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra spicy kick.
Vegetable Additions: Mix in some diced bell peppers or corn kernels to the beef and bean mixture for added texture and flavor.
Taco Toppings: Top the baked shells with classic taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced black olives.
Taco Stuffed Shells are a delightful fusion dish that brings together the comforting elements of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends, offering a fun twist on traditional stuffed shells. Enjoy this dish as a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish. Happy cooking!