Taco stuffed shells are a delightful fusion of classic Italian pasta and zesty Mexican flavors, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I needed a quick and satisfying meal that would please my whole family. These cheesy, savory shells are perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even a fun twist on Taco Tuesday.
Why you’ll love this dish
There’s a lot to adore about taco stuffed shells! Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also require minimal ingredients and can be assembled in under an hour. They’re kid-approved, making them an excellent choice for family dinners, and they pack a flavor punch that brings joy to adult taste buds as well.
"These taco stuffed shells were a hit in our house! My kids devoured them, and I loved how easily I could prepare everything in one dish!"
How this recipe comes together
Making taco stuffed shells is surprisingly straightforward and fun. First, you cook the ground beef to golden perfection, then mix it with tangy cream cheese and shredded cheese for a creamy filling that oozes flavor. You’ll stuff this mixture into hearty jumbo pasta shells, then cover them with salsa and more cheese before baking. This process not only creates a delicious main dish but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as they bake.
Key ingredients
To make delicious taco stuffed shells, you’ll need:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheese (your choice)
- 2 cups salsa
- Sour cream, for topping
- Tomatoes, for topping
- Olives, for topping
For a twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or try different flavors of salsa to customize the dish!
