Taco Stuffed Shells
Introduction
Taco Stuffed Shells is a fun and delicious twist on traditional tacos. This dish combines the flavors of your favorite taco ingredients with pasta, making it a hit for dinner time. With a hearty filling and a cheesy topping, these stuffed shells are sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Taco Stuffed Shells is a great way to enjoy the tastes of tacos in a new way. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe is also customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings or ingredients. Plus, it’s a fun dish that kids and adults love!
How to Make Taco Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions and drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa.
- Fill each cooked shell with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Spread any remaining salsa over the stuffed shells and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm, topped with sour cream, green onions, and cilantro.
How to Serve Taco Stuffed Shells
Serve Taco Stuffed Shells warm from the oven. For added flavor, top each shell with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions and cilantro. You can also serve with extra salsa or guacamole on the side for a complete meal.
How to Store Taco Stuffed Shells
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick meal.
Tips to Make Taco Stuffed Shells
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta shells; they should be soft but firm enough to hold the filling.
- Feel free to use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
- Add beans, corn, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variation
You can easily change up the flavors by using different types of protein, such as shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian version. Change the cheese to your favorite type for a different taste, too!
FAQs
Q: Can I make Taco Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the shells and filling in advance, then assemble and bake them just before serving.
Q: What can I substitute for ground beef?
A: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Q: How do I make these stuffed shells spicier?
A: To add more heat, use a hot salsa or add some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Enjoy making Taco Stuffed Shells for a flavorful, easy meal that everyone will love!
Taco Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells Large shells suitable for stuffing.
- 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with turkey or chicken.
- 1 packet taco seasoning Use your favorite brand.
- 1 cup salsa Choose a mild or hot version depending on taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) For topping.
- 1 cup sour cream For serving.
Garnishes
- Chopped green onions For garnish.
- Chopped cilantro For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions and drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa.
- Fill each cooked shell with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Spread any remaining salsa over the stuffed shells and top with shredded cheese.
Baking
- Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Serve warm, topped with sour cream, green onions, and cilantro.
