Taco Stuffed Shells: A Flavorful Twist on Taco Night

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and easy way to spice up taco night, look no further than Taco Stuffed Shells. This dish combines all the deliciousness of tacos with the comforting heartiness of pasta. Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty salsa, then baked to perfection. It’s a perfect dinner for the whole family or for when you’re craving a taco-inspired meal with a twist!

Ingredients

• 20–24 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
• ¾ cup water
• 1 cup salsa or salsa-style tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes, drained (or diced tomatoes)
• 1 jalapeno or serrano pepper, finely minced
• Green onion (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the shells from sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta shells cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef in the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. When the beef is about halfway browned, add the diced onion and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 4: Add the Taco Seasoning

Once the beef and onions are cooked, stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken. Add the salsa and stir everything together. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

After the mixture has cooled, stir in half of each type of cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack). This will create a creamy, cheesy filling for the stuffed shells.

Step 6: Stuff the Shells

Carefully spoon the beef and cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Top the shells with the remaining shredded cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and the finely minced jalapeno or serrano pepper for an extra kick.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the dish with the optional green onion for a fresh crunch and pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, taco-flavored goodness!

Why You'll Love Taco Stuffed Shells

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the fusion of two favorite foods—tacos and pasta!
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by using a milder or hotter pepper, or add extra toppings like sour cream or guacamole.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for leftovers or preparing ahead for busy nights.

Final Thoughts

Taco Stuffed Shells are a fantastic way to shake up your weeknight dinner routine. With savory ground beef, melty cheese, and the vibrant flavors of salsa and taco seasoning, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, it's easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. So, why not give Taco Stuffed Shells a try tonight and add a new twist to your taco night?