Taco Stuffed Shells
Taco Stuffed Shells is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the flavors of classic tacos with the comfort of cheesy pasta. Imagine each shell filled with a savory beef mixture, enveloped in gooey cheddar cheese, and topped with a dollop of creamy sour cream. This recipe is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, making it not just a meal but a celebration of comfort food. It’s worth making for family dinners or casual gatherings, as it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fantastic Taco Stuffed Shells recipe offers quick cooking times and minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll appreciate the simplicity of the prep work, as cooking the beef and boiling the shells are straightforward tasks. Plus, with its family-friendly appeal, it’s a dish that even picky eaters will adore. Say goodbye to complicated recipes; this one delivers flavor and satisfaction without fuss.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells: These large, tubular pasta pieces are perfect for stuffing, providing a satisfying bite.
- 1/2 lb ground beef: Juicy and flavorful, ground beef adds the heartiness this dish needs.
- 1/2 cup taco sauce: Rich and aromatic, taco sauce infuses the filling with robust Mexican flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Creamy and melty, cheddar cheese is the perfect topping for this dish, adding a delightful richness.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhancing the flavors, salt is a must in every savory dish.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: This adds a hint of spice and depth to the filling.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy, sour cream is the ideal garnish, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro: Adding a burst of freshness, cilantro brings a vibrant touch to the finished dish.
Step-by-Step Directions
Boil the Shells: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until they are al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside on a clean towel or plate to cool slightly.
Prepare the Beef Filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once thoroughly cooked, season with salt and black pepper. Stir in the taco sauce and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Stuff the Shells: Carefully take each shell and fill it with the savory beef mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish with the open side facing up. Once all the shells are filled, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to meld into the dish as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the assembled Taco Stuffed Shells for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. It’s hard to resist the aroma wafting through your kitchen at this stage!
Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and add a dollop of sour cream on top of each shell. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that extra pop of flavor. Serve these warm, and watch your family ask for seconds!
Tips & Tricks
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with your seasonings! Adding garlic powder or onion powder to the beef mixture can enhance its flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For a healthier twist, consider mixing chopped bell peppers or black beans into the beef filling.
- Cheese Alternatives: You can switch up the cheese if you prefer a different flavor—monterey jack cheese or pepper jack adds a nice kick!
- Make Ahead: This dish can be fully assembled and refrigerated a day ahead of time, making dinner prep a breeze.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Taco Stuffed Shells are not only delicious on their own but can be paired with a side salad for a complete meal. Serve with a zesty Mexican corn salad to complement the flavors. For special occasions, consider offering a homemade salsa as a starter. These shells are also perfect for casual gatherings or family movie nights, guaranteeing a scrumptious experience for everyone.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 stuffed shell):
- Calories: Approximately 240
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
This hearty dish provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling option. However, pairing it with a fresh salad can help boost the nutritional value while keeping the meal light.
Storing Tips & Variations
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed shells before baking. Just make sure to wrap them well. To reheat, simply bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
For a fun twist, try using different fillings! Swap ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken, or make a vegetarian version using lentils or black beans.
Conclusion
Taco Stuffed Shells is a recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and ease, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add a delicious dish to their weekly menu. Gather the ingredients, follow the step-by-step directions, and soon you’ll be enjoying this warm and cheesy delight. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!
FAQs
1. Can I make Taco Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the shells and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just ensure they’re covered tightly to keep them fresh.
2. What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option.
3. Are Taco Stuffed Shells freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
4. How can I add more flavor to the filling?
Consider adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or spices like cumin and chili powder for more depth of flavor.
5. What side dishes pair well with Taco Stuffed Shells?
Great options include a light salad, Mexican street corn, or tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole for a perfect meal combination.
Taco Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1/2 lb ground beef Juicy and flavorful, adds heartiness.
- 1/2 cup taco sauce Infuses filling with robust Mexican flavors.
- 1/2 tsp salt Enhances flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
For the shells and toppings
- 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells Perfect for stuffing.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Creamy and melty topping.
- 1/4 cup sour cream Ideal garnish.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro For garnish and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil the Shells: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente (about 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Filling: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir in taco sauce and simmer for 2 minutes.
Assembly
- Stuff the Shells: Fill each shell with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish with the open side up. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, add a dollop of sour cream on each shell, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve warm.