Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells

Bold and hearty Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells combine Tex-Mex flavors with an Italian twist. This easy-to-make casserole features tender pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef, a creamy cheese blend, and zesty salsa, baked to perfection. Ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or gatherings, this dish offers a customizable, crowd-pleasing option that pairs well with classic taco toppings and side dishes.

Ingredients:

• 18-20 jumbo pasta shells (boil extra in case some break)
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup beef broth (can substitute chicken broth or water)
• 1 oz. packet taco seasoning
• 10 oz. diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
• 1 ½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded and divided
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 16 oz. salsa

Instructions:

Prepare the Pasta Shells:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Boil the pasta shells in salted water for 1 minute less than al dente. Set a timer to avoid overcooking. Drain the shells and gently rinse them with cold water until the water runs cool. Set aside.

Cook the Filling:

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until it is nearly cooked through, about 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Drain any excess grease.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and add the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine and cook until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until well blended.
2. Add the cooled meat mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly combined.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Spread half of the salsa evenly across the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish (or a 12-inch round oven-safe skillet).
2. Use a spoon to fill each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture, then arrange the filled shells in the baking dish.
3. Pour the remaining salsa over the top of the shells, then sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

Bake:

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

1. Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, sour cream, or guacamole. Serve immediately.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pasta dishes, combining the best of Tex-Mex and Italian cuisine. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe is both hearty and satisfying, with layers of cheesy goodness and bold taco flavors.

Tips

• Boil extra pasta shells in case some break during cooking.
• Let the meat mixture cool slightly before mixing with the cheese to prevent melting.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use black beans or pinto beans in place of meat for a vegetarian version.
• Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time if chilled.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

What other cheeses can I use? Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella can be used as substitutes or additions.

Serving

Serve with a fresh green salad, tortilla chips, or Mexican rice for a complete meal. Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Suggestions

• Top with sliced avocados or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
• Pair with a refreshing limeade or iced tea.
• Use leftovers as filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas for a creative spin on another meal.