Print

Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells combine the bold flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta, creating a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  1. 12-14 jumbo pasta shells
    1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
    1 small onion, chopped
    1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix)
    1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
    1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
    1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    1 cup enchilada sauce or marinara sauce
    1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for garnish)
    Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional, for garnish)
    Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the pasta shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly so you can handle them without burning your hands.

  1. Cook the filling: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Season the meat: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook according to the packet instructions (usually adding a bit of water). Add the black beans and corn (if using) to the meat mixture and cook for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
  3. Stuff the shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill each cooked pasta shell with the taco meat mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
  4. Assemble the dish: Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce (or marinara) in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
  5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with tofu or extra beans like black or pinto beans.
  • To make it spicy, add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture or sprinkle chili flakes.
  • If you don’t have jumbo pasta shells, try using penne or rotini. Simply mix the cooked pasta with the taco meat mixture and sauce.
  • For a fun twist, add some diced tomatoes or guacamole as a topping for a more “taco-style” presentation.

Nutrition