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Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
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Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells combine cheesy pasta with a zesty taco-seasoned meat filling, offering a flavorful, kid-friendly, and customizable dinner that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Base

  • 20 large pasta shells

Protein and Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup refried beans or black beans, rinsed and drained

Sauces and Cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce or salsa
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

Garnishes and Optional Toppings

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Optional: sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain carefully and lay them out flat on a baking sheet to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
  2. Prepare the Taco Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning along with a little water to help it coat evenly. Mix in beans and cook for a few more minutes until hot and well combined.
  3. Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the taco meat mixture into each pasta shell, filling them generously but avoiding overstuffing to keep the shells intact.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or salsa in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and cover them with more sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to melt and slightly brown the cheese.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, green onions, and any extra toppings you love, such as sour cream or avocado slices. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Do not overcook shells; keep them al dente to hold shape and avoid mushiness when baked.
  • Always drain excess grease from cooked meat to prevent oily filling.
  • Mixing in beans or corn balances texture and flavor.
  • Use melt-friendly cheese like cheddar or Mexican blend for best gooey results.
  • Cover baking dish with foil to prevent drying, removing foil for last few minutes to brown cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco stuffed shells, taco pasta, stuffed pasta shells, easy dinner, family meal, Mexican-inspired, cheesy pasta, kid-friendly recipe

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/taco-stuffed-pasta-shells/