Taco Stuffed Shells
Get ready for a fiesta of flavors with our Taco Stuffed Shells recipe. This Mexican-inspired dish combines the best of both worlds, bringing together the classic flavors of tacos and the comfort of stuffed pasta shells.
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Servings: 7
Ingredients
- Lean Ground Beef 1 ½ pounds / 680g: Provides a rich, meaty base for the filling.
- Taco Seasoning Mix 1 packet: Adds classic taco flavor to the beef.
- Garlic 2 ½ cloves, freshly minced: Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic profile.
- Cream Cheese 4 ounces / 113g, softened: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the filling.
- Shredded Mexican or Fiesta Cheese Blend 1 cup / 115g: Provides a cheesy, savory note to the dish.
- Salsa 1 cup / 250ml: Adds a zesty, tangy flavor to the filling.
- Chopped Green Onions ½ cup / 25g: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- Large Shell Pasta 8 ounces / 225g: Provides a hearty base for the filling.
Instructions
- Begin by boiling the large shell pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them to prevent sticking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, sauté the ground beef until browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the meat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa, ensuring the beef is evenly coated.
- Cut the cream cheese into small pieces and add them to the skillet. Stir the mixture continuously until the cream cheese has melted and blended smoothly.
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Stuff each shell with the beef mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese and chopped green onions.
- Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve your Taco Stuffed Shells with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to customize the filling by adding additional ingredients such as diced bell peppers or black beans for added flavor and texture. Serve these Taco Stuffed Shells with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, or additional salsa for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
Embrace the mouthwatering fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines with our Taco Stuffed Shells recipe. The flavorful combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa, all stuffed into jumbo pasta shells, will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or planning a gathering, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress. Get ready to savor the deliciousness and enjoy a delightful culinary adventure.