Name: Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 12 ounces Jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2/3 cup water; 1 1/2 cup jarred salsa, divided; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

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Every family has that one go-to weeknight dinner recipe that calls everyone to the table. For us, it’s these Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells . Combining the comforting embrace of pasta with the vibrant flavors of a taco, this dish is not only a hit with my kids but also wins over any guest at the table. It’s like having a food fiesta on a chilly Manhattan evening.

When I whipped this up last Tuesday, it reminded me of the time my cousin visited from out of town. She took one bite and said, “I could eat this every day!” It’s safe to say, it’s a crowd-pleaser. If you love comforting meals, don’t miss trying our crescent roll breakfast ideas too.

Why you’ll love this recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s ridiculously easy to make and brings together the best of both worlds—pasta and tacos. It’s ready in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect fit for busy weeknights. Plus, kids love helping out with stuffing the shells, turning dinner prep into a fun family activity.

Ingredients

12 ounces Jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
2/3 cup water
1 1/2 cup jarred salsa, divided
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Step-by-step instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Then, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions and drain them.

Next, brown the ground beef in a pan. Once it’s nicely browned, drain the excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and water, stir well, and cook until the water evaporates.

Stir in 1 cup of salsa and ¾ cup of shredded cheese. Begin stuffing the beef mixture into the cooked jumbo pasta shells.

Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, topping them with the remaining salsa and cheese. Cover the dish and bake for 15 minutes.

Recipe tips & variations

For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey instead of beef. Prefer a vegetarian version? Swap the meat with black beans for a delicious twist. Customize the spice level by choosing mild or spicy salsa, and consider adding chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storage & reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave, or for a fresher taste, use the oven. Simply cover the dish with foil and heat at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the stuffed shells and refrigerate them up to a day in advance. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to cook.

What if I can’t find jumbo shells?

No worries! You can use medium shells and mix everything together for a different take that’s just as delicious.

How can I make it less spicy?

Opt for mild salsa and maybe skip adding jalapeños. You can always adjust the spice level to suit your family’s taste.

Recipes you may like

If you’re digging these flavors, you might also love our breakfast potatoes or this breakfast pizza . Both are perfect for adding a touch of excitement to your morning routine.