Go Back
Taco Stuffed Shells

Taco Stuffed Shells

Taco Stuffed Shells blend the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta, featuring large shells filled with seasoned ground meat and cheese, then baked to perfection. This easy, family-friendly dish combines the best of Mexican and Italian cuisines for a satisfying meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

Fort he Stuffed Shells:

  • 24 large pasta shells: These will be stuffed with the taco filling.
  • 1 pound ground beef: You can substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or pork.
  • 1 packet taco seasoning, (about 1 ounce): This adds the traditional taco flavor. Alternatively, you can make your own seasoning mix (see below).
  • 1 cup tomato sauce: This helps bind the meat mixture and adds moisture.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Feel free to use a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack cheese.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Optional, for added creaminess and flavor.

For the Taco Seasoning Mix (if making your own):

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)

For Assembling and Topping:

  • 1 cup salsa: For topping or as a side condiment.
  • ½ cup sour cream: For serving, can be optional based on preference.
  • ½ cup guacamole: Optional, for added flavor and creaminess.
  • 2 green onions, chopped: For garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Optional, for garnish.

For Cooking:

  • 2 cups water: For boiling the pasta shells.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the ground meat.

Instructions
 

  • Preparing the Pasta Shells
    Start by cooking the pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente. Overcooking can cause them to fall apart when you stuff them, so aim for slightly firm pasta.
  • Cooking the Ground Meat
    While the shells cook, brown the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water or tomato sauce for moisture.
  • Assembling the Stuffed Shells
    Once the meat is ready and the shells are drained, it’s time to stuff them. Spoon the taco meat mixture into each shell, pressing the filling gently to pack it in well.
  • Baking Your Taco Stuffed Shells
    Arrange the filled shells in a baking dish, top with shredded cheese and a little extra sauce, then bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.