Introduction

Taco Stuffed Shells are the perfect mashup between two comfort food favorites: tacos and pasta. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells packed with seasoned ground beef, tangy salsa, and melty cheese, all baked to perfection in the oven. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to turn taco night into something new and exciting.

The first time I tried these shells was during a family game night. We wanted tacos, but also something a little more filling and cozy. Out came a bubbling tray of pasta shells stuffed with taco filling, topped with cheddar cheese, and finished with cool sour cream and cilantro. The result was a meal that had everyone reaching for seconds.

This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to serve at parties. Plus, it’s versatile — you can swap the beef for chicken or turkey, use different cheeses, or spice it up with jalapeños. If you’re a fan of fusion comfort food, you’ll also love this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, which bring the same fun twist to classic flavors.

Ingredients for Taco Stuffed Shells

• 12 jumbo pasta shells

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 1 cup salsa

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Optional Substitutions

• Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

• Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.

• Topping: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

• Garnish: Try parsley or green onions instead of cilantro.

Directions for Taco Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat & Cook Shells
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Filling
   In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and salsa, stirring until well combined.

3. Fill the Shells
   Remove from heat. Spoon beef mixture generously into each pasta shell.

4. Bake
   Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve
   Let cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream and fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations for Taco Stuffed Shells

• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.

• Make Ahead: Assemble shells earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake before dinner.

• Family-Style Serving: Serve with tortilla chips and extra salsa on the side.

• Other Fusion Favorites: Try this Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe for a warm, comforting side dish.

Storage for Taco Stuffed Shells

This Taco Stuffed Shells recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until hot.

For freezing, assemble the shells but don’t bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 15 minutes to the cooking time.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Tools Used

• Large pot (for pasta shells)

• Skillet (for beef filling)

• Baking dish

• Mixing spoon

• Oven

FAQ

Q1: Can I make Taco Stuffed Shells vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the beef for black beans, lentils, or a mix of sautéed veggies for a delicious meat-free version.

Q2: What can I serve with Taco Stuffed Shells?
They pair well with a fresh green salad, Spanish rice, or even chips and guacamole.

Final Thoughts on Taco Stuffed Shells

The Taco Stuffed Shells recipe is a fun and flavorful way to combine two classic meals into one satisfying dish. Cheesy, zesty, and hearty, it’s the kind of comfort food that brings everyone together at the table. Whether you’re looking to spice up taco night or surprise your family with something new, this dish is sure to impress.

And if you’re craving more Tex-Mex inspiration, take a look at Delish’s Mexican recipe collection, where you’ll find endless ways to enjoy bold, zesty flavors.