Taco Stuffed Shells
Introduction
Taco Stuffed Shells bring together the delicious flavors of tacos and the comfort of pasta in one impressive dish. This recipe is a fun twist on traditional tacos, stuffed into tender jumbo shells. With a savory beef filling and plenty of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for family dinners or gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
If you love tacos but want to try something new, Taco Stuffed Shells are a perfect choice. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they are also filling and cheesy. With ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens, you can make a delightful meal without too much fuss. This recipe is excellent for both kids and adults, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
How to Make Taco Stuffed Shells
Here’s how to create this delicious dish step by step.
Ingredients:
- 24 jumbo shells, cooked according to package directions
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
- 2 ounces mild taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup water
- 16 ounces mild salsa
- 2 1/2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese
- Taco sauce, optional garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and water; cook for 5 minutes.
- Mix in salsa and 1 cup of the cheese.
- Stuff the cooked shells with the beef mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Pour any remaining salsa over the stuffed shells and top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with taco sauce if desired and serve hot.
How to Serve Taco Stuffed Shells
Serve Taco Stuffed Shells hot from the oven. They make a great main dish paired with a side salad or some additional taco toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
How to Store Taco Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Taco Stuffed Shells
- Ensure you don’t overcook the jumbo shells; they should be al dente for easier stuffing.
- If you want a spicier kick, consider using spicy salsa or adding diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
Variation
You can easily make Taco Stuffed Shells vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or cooked black beans. This keeps the flavors rich while transforming the dish to suit different diets.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Taco Stuffed Shells?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just assemble the stuffed shells in the baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen; you may need to add some extra time to the cooking process.
2. What type of cheese can I use?
While Colby jack is delicious, you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and keep them in the fridge for a day before baking. Just cover them tightly to keep them fresh.
