Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells combine the comforting warmth of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite in my household. With a cheesy filling and a zesty salsa topping, these stuffed pasta shells will surely impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
This Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe is a weeknight hero! Here are several reasons to fall in love with it:
- Quick preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes!
- Family-friendly: It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos.
- Flavorful: Packed with ground beef and taco seasoning.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
- Cheesy goodness: Who doesn’t love melted cheddar?
- Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead and enjoy later.
These Taco-inspired stuffed shells are an excellent way to incorporate your favorite taco flavors into a pasta dish, combining two beloved cuisines (Cuisine: Mexican).
Ingredients for Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
Gather these items:
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: sour cream and fresh cilantro for garnish
How to Make Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and cool slightly.
- Step 2: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with salt and pepper. Stir in taco seasoning and salsa, cooking until heated through.
- Step 3: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill each shell with the beef mixture.
- Step 4: Spread salsa in a baking dish, arrange stuffed shells seam-side up, top with remaining salsa and cheese.
- Step 5: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Step 6: Garnish with sour cream and cilantro if desired before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
Keep these in mind:
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be slightly firm to hold the filling.
- Experiment with different proteins like turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
Best Ways to Serve Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
Here are some serving ideas:
- Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips.
- Top with additional salsa and chopped green onions for extra flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
To store any leftovers, place the shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, cheesy taco goodness throughout the week!
Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
What’s the secret to perfect Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Ensure the pasta is cooked just right and the filling is well-seasoned with taco spices. Using a combination of cheeses can elevate the dish, making it even more delicious.
Can I make Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and keep them in the fridge for a day before baking. Just cover them with foil to prevent drying out.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the pasta isn’t overcooked and that you fill the shells generously. Also, make sure to cover them while baking to keep them moist.
Variations of Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells You Can Try
Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Add corn or diced bell peppers to the filling for extra veggies.
- Try different salsas, like mango or pineapple, for a sweet twist.
For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes, or try making cheesy mashed potato balls in the air fryer for a tasty side dish. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss out on cosmic brownie bites.
For more information on taco seasoning, you can visit Spice Jungle.
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Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells: 5 Steps to Deliciousness
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells combine the comforting warmth of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: sour cream and fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and cool slightly.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with salt and pepper. Stir in taco seasoning and salsa, cooking until heated through.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill each shell with the beef mixture.
- Spread salsa in a baking dish, arrange stuffed shells seam-side up, top with remaining salsa and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with sour cream and cilantro if desired before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
