Taco Stuffed Shells

Name: Taco Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 20 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup enchilada sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup diced onions; 1/2 cup diced bell peppers; Sour cream (for topping); Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Olivia Morgan

June 2, 2025

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Taco Stuffed Shells

Taco Stuffed Shells are a delightful and hearty dish that combines the flavors we love in tacos with the comfort of pasta. Imagine large pasta shells filled to the brim with seasoned ground beef, vibrant veggies, and gooey cheese. It’s an explosion of taste in every bite! The rich enchilada sauce ties everything together, making this dish not only satisfying but extremely delicious. Perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering, Taco Stuffed Shells will surely impress your guests. #TacoStuffedShells #ComfortFood

This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight meal option. Everyone at your table will enjoy the flavors, and you’ll love how simple it is to create such a tasty meal.

Why Make This Recipe

You will love Taco Stuffed Shells for many reasons!

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty stuffed shells.
Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings or veggies to make it your own.
Affordable Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are budget-friendly and easily found in any grocery store.
Perfect for Leftovers: These shells keep well and make an excellent meal for lunch the next day!

How to Make Taco Stuffed Shells

Making Taco Stuffed Shells is straightforward and fun! Start by gathering all your ingredients. This recipe will show you how to make these delicious stuffed shells in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
20 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup enchilada sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
Sour cream (for topping)
Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 4: Add the taco seasoning, diced onions, and bell peppers. Cook until the veggies are softened.
Step 5: Stuff each shell with the taco beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
Step 6: Pour enchilada sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with shredded cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve hot, topped with sour cream and garnished with cilantro.

Tools You’ll Need

Skillet
Baking dish
Pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Mixing spoon

How to Serve Taco Stuffed Shells

Serve Taco Stuffed Shells while they are hot for the best taste. You can add toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, salsa, or diced tomatoes. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some tortilla chips for a complete meal. Enjoy this dish with friends and family!

How to Store Taco Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of enchilada sauce on top when reheating to keep them moist.

Tips to Make Taco Stuffed Shells

Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta shells just right so they don’t break when you fill them.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute if you prefer.
Add Extra Veggies: You can add more vegetables, like corn or black beans, to the beef mixture for added nutrition.

Variation

You can easily change up this recipe to suit your tastes! Consider using different sauces, like a mild salsa instead of enchilada sauce. You can also experiment with cheese blends, adding pepper jack for a spicy kick or using a vegan cheese alternative. For a lower-carb option, use zucchini boats instead of pasta shells for stuffing.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

Q: Can these be made ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells, cover them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.

Q: What’s a good side dish for Taco Stuffed Shells?
A: Serve with a simple salad, Mexican rice, or some guacamole and tortilla chips.

Q: How can I make this spicier?
A: You can add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Personal Cook’s Note

I first discovered Taco Stuffed Shells while looking for something different to serve our family on Taco Night. The kids loved them right away! This dish now holds a special place in our weekly meal lineup. I love to customize my stuffed shells with whatever veggies we have on hand. It’s always a hit, and I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Please share your thoughts or any personal variations in the comments below! Happy cooking!