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Taco Stuffed Shells

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A fun, flavorful twist on taco night! Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with seasoned ground beef and cheese, baked in a spicy enchilada sauce, and topped with your favorite taco toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box jumbo pasta shells (approx. 20–25 shells)
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup salsa (your preferred level of spice)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (or taco sauce)
  • Optional toppings: chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, or avocado

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta Shells:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain and rinse the shells under cool water to stop cooking, then set aside.
  • Prepare the Taco Meat:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
    • Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Assemble the Filling:
    • Remove the skillet from heat and mix 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the taco meat.
  • Prepare the Baking Dish:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Spread 1/2 cup of salsa and 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Stuff the Shells:
    • Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the taco meat mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
  • Top the Shells:
    • Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the shells.
    • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses evenly over the top.
  • Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
    • Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, olives, sour cream, or jalapeños.

Notes

  • You can use ground turkey for a leaner version or add black beans for extra protein.
  • For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of chili flakes or hot sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://easyfoodflash.com/taco-stuffed-shells/