These Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells combine the comforting flavors of tacos with hearty pasta, creating a fun and family-friendly dinner. Filled with seasoned ground meat, creamy cheese, and topped with melted cheddar, they’re perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Families looking for a kid-friendly, flavorful dinner.
- Busy home cooks who enjoy one-pan, hearty meals.
- Taco lovers who want a creative twist on a classic dish.
- Anyone who enjoys creamy, cheesy comfort food.
Why it’s Great
- Easy to prepare: Uses simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Flavorful and comforting: Combines savory taco flavors with creamy cheese and pasta.
- Customizable: Swap beef for turkey or a vegetarian protein, like beans.
- Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for dinners with friends or family gatherings.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan for cooking pasta
- Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
Protein:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 package (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
Sauce & Cheese:
- 1 ½ cups salsa
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked and drained
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Sour cream
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully browned.
- Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Cook for 2–3 minutes until well combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in softened cream cheese until creamy.
2. Stuff the Shells
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon the meat and cheese mixture into cooked jumbo pasta shells.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.
3. Add Cheese and Bake
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve
- Optionally, top with diced tomatoes, cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze baked shells for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace the meat with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based protein.
Q: Can I use different cheeses?
A: Absolutely! Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella work well for a different flavor.
Q: Can this be made ahead of time?
A: Yes! Stuff the shells and cover with foil in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
Q: Can I add extra veggies?
A: Definitely! Corn, bell peppers, or diced onions can be added to the filling.
Conclusion
Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells are a fun, flavorful twist on traditional tacos and pasta. With a creamy, cheesy filling and gooey melted cheddar on top, this dish is perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Quick, versatile, and delicious, it’s a recipe you’ll keep returning to again and again.
