Introduction
Taco-stuffed pasta shells are a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines, combining the comforting texture of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a fun twist on Taco Tuesday. The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, melted cheese, and zesty salsa creates a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a fan of tacos, pasta, or both, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 large pasta shells
- 3/4 pound ground beef
- 1.25 ounces taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1.5 cups canned beans (16 oz. can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/3 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (for filling)
- 16 cups salsa (divided)
- 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons shredded Cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta shells:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook for about 13 minutes, or until they are slightly firm (al dente). Drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the taco meat:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess oil. Add the taco seasoning mix and water, stirring to combine. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
- Mix the filling:
In a bowl, combine the cooked taco meat, 3/4 cup of beans, and 1/3 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Assemble the dish:
Spread 1/4 cup of salsa evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the taco meat mixture and place them seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining salsa over the filled shells.
- Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of shredded Cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with chopped green onions and dollops of sour cream.
How to Make
The key to making this dish is to ensure the pasta shells are cooked just enough to hold their shape without becoming too soft. When preparing the taco meat, make sure to drain any excess oil to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
Mixing the meat with beans and cheese adds creaminess and depth to the filling. Assembling the dish is simple: spread a layer of salsa in the baking dish, place the stuffed shells on top, and cover them with more salsa for extra flavor.
Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive and delicious meal.
When baking, covering the dish with foil for the first half of the cooking time helps the shells stay moist and tender. Removing the foil for the final few minutes allows the cheese to melt and the edges of the shells to crisp up slightly.
Garnishing with green onions and sour cream adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the dish. Serve the stuffed shells warm, straight from the oven, for the best taste and texture.
Variations
For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Vegetarians can replace the meat with a plant-based ground alternative or use a mixture of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Adding corn or black olives to the filling can introduce new textures and flavors, making the dish even more exciting.
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using hot salsa or adding a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning. For a creamier filling, mix in a bit of cream cheese or a dollop of guacamole.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to add a unique twist to the dish.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all other ingredients, such as the taco seasoning, are gluten-free. If you’re looking to reduce the carb content, try using large bell pepper halves or zucchini boats instead of pasta shells.
These variations allow you to customize the dish to suit your dietary preferences or simply to keep things interesting.
Tips
To prevent the pasta shells from cracking while stuffing, handle them gently and avoid overcooking. If the shells do crack, don’t worry—they’ll still taste delicious once baked.
When preparing the taco meat, taste the seasoning and adjust it to your preference, adding more spice or a pinch of salt if needed.
For a smoother assembly process, prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking. This includes cooking the pasta, browning the meat, and shredding the cheese. Having everything ready to go will make the process quicker and more enjoyable.
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling and cook the pasta shells ahead of time, then assemble and bake the dish just before serving.
When baking, keep an eye on the dish to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn. If the edges of the shells start to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil again. Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to serve.
How to Store
Leftover taco-stuffed pasta shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the oven method helps maintain the texture of the pasta.
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked dish. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months.
When ready to bake, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Conclusion
Taco-stuffed pasta shells are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a new and exciting form. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or simply adding some variety to your weekly meal rotation. With its customizable ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary need.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of savory taco meat, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious fusion of two beloved cuisines!