Oh my goodness, let me tell you about taco stuffed shells! These little pockets of joy are a heavenly fusion of flavors that bring together the best of pasta and tacos in one easy-to-make dish. Seriously, if you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s as fun to eat as it is to prepare, look no further! The jumbo pasta shells are like cozy little envelopes, cradling a delicious beef mixture seasoned with taco spices and creamy refried beans. And let’s not forget about the melted cheese and zesty salsa on top—wow! You can whip this up in about 40 minutes, and trust me, everyone will be going back for seconds. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making these taco stuffed shells together!
Ingredients List
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can refried beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
How to Prepare Taco Stuffed Shells
Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to get that oven nice and toasty! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, preheating is super important because it helps the cheese melt beautifully and ensures everything cooks evenly. So go ahead and set that temperature while you prepare the rest!
Cook the Pasta Shells
Now, let’s get those jumbo pasta shells cooking! Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the shells according to the package instructions. Usually, they only need about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente. You want them firm enough to hold all that delicious filling, but soft enough to enjoy. Once done, drain them and give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside while we work on the filling.
Prepare the Taco Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. This step is crucial because it adds flavor! Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and refried beans. Mix it all together well—this is where the magic happens! You want every bite to be bursting with that taco flavor. Cook for another few minutes until everything is heated through.
Stuff the Shells
Now for the fun part—stuffing those shells! Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the taco beef mixture. Don’t be shy; you want them packed full for maximum flavor! Place them seam-side up in a baking dish. It’s okay if they’re a little messy—this is all about cozy comfort food!
Assemble the Dish
Once all the shells are stuffed, it’s time to assemble! Pour the salsa evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them nicely. Then sprinkle that glorious shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. This is where it starts to look and smell divine!
Bake
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Ooh, the aroma wafting through your kitchen is just irresistible!
Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, let them sit for a minute before serving. Top each shell with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. They’re ready to enjoy! Trust me, every bite is going to be a flavor explosion. Your family will be asking for this dish again and again!
Why You’ll Love Taco Stuffed Shells
- Super easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
- A delicious blend of flavors that brings together your favorite taco and pasta tastes.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings—add jalapeños, guacamole, or even some fresh cilantro!
- Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week—everyone loves them!
- Kid-friendly and sure to please picky eaters with cheesy goodness.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
- Gluten-free option available by using gluten-free pasta shells.
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy dinner at home.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your taco stuffed shells turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: It’s tempting to cook the shells until they’re super soft, but remember they’ll bake in the oven too! Aim for al dente, so they hold their shape and texture.
- Mix it up: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could even use crumbled tofu or black beans for a vegetarian version—so versatile!
- Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños into the filling or sprinkle some chili powder for an extra kick. It’s all about your taste!
- Cheese choices: While I love cheddar, you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor. The gooier, the better!
- Make-ahead magic: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
- Don’t forget the toppings: Toppings can make or break your dish! Besides sour cream and green onions, consider adding fresh avocado, diced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Keep it juicy: If you notice your filling is a bit dry, add a splash of beef broth or extra salsa to keep it moist and flavorful.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making taco stuffed shells that are not just good, but absolutely fantastic! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about what’s inside these delicious taco stuffed shells! While they’re loaded with flavor, it’s always good to know what you’re eating. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (that’s one stuffed shell):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 12g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But hey, knowing the numbers can help you enjoy your meal even more without any surprises! Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!
FAQ About Taco Stuffed Shells
Can I make taco stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake—just remember to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold!
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you want to switch things up, ground turkey or chicken works great! You can also use crumbled tofu or black beans for a vegetarian-friendly option. The flavors will still be fantastic!
Can I freeze taco stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing. Thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake them as usual when you’re ready to eat!
How do I know when they’re done baking?
You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and everything is heated through. The delicious aroma will also be a good hint that they’re done!
What toppings do you recommend?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love adding sour cream and chopped green onions, but you could also add diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. Get creative!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! While cheddar is a classic, feel free to try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses. The more gooey and melty, the better!
What sides pair well with taco stuffed shells?
You can’t go wrong with a fresh salad or some Mexican-style rice on the side. Chips and guacamole would also complement the flavors beautifully!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious taco stuffed shells leftovers! If you happen to have any (which is rare because they’re so tasty!), here’s how to keep them fresh and flavorful:
- Storing: Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re tightly sealed to prevent any moisture from sneaking in!
- Freezing: If you want to save them for later, you can freeze them! Wrap each stuffed shell individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. Just remember to label them with the date so you know when you made them!
Now, when it comes to reheating, I’ve got a couple of methods that work wonders:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish. Cover them with a bit of foil to keep the moisture in, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain that gooey cheese and flavors!
- Microwave Reheating: If you’re short on time, the microwave works too! Place one or two stuffed shells on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to see if they’re warm enough. Just be careful not to overdo it, or they might get a bit rubbery!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy those scrumptious taco stuffed shells even after the first serving—and trust me, they’re just as delicious the next day!
Print
Taco Stuffed Shells: 7 Flavorful Bites of Joy
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Taco stuffed shells are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines pasta shells with seasoned taco filling.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can refried beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the taco seasoning and refried beans to the beef and mix well.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Pour salsa over the shells and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted.
- Serve with sour cream and green onions on top.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite toppings.
- Use chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Make it vegetarian by using black beans and veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: taco stuffed shells, pasta, tacos, easy dinner
