Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells
Ingredients:
22-24 jumbo pasta shells (a little more than half a box), 1 pound ground beef, 1 pk taco seasoning, 1 cup mild salsa, 4 oz cream cheese, 1 (10oz) can red enchilada sauce, 2 cups Mexican cheese blend
How to make:
preheat oven to 350
Cook shells according to instructions (it’s okay if they are a little firm since you will be baking) once cooked, lay individually so they don’t stick together
Cook chop and brown ground beef on skillet once browned, add in salsa and taco seasoning
Add cream cheese to beef mixture, stir until melted
Pour half of enchilada sauce onto the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish
Stuff shells with beef mixture, place in dish
Drizzle remaining enchilada sauce and top with cheese
Bake for about 20 min
1. What are Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells?
Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells are a delicious and hearty dish where pasta shells are filled with a seasoned taco meat mixture, topped with cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden.
2. How do I make Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells?
The process typically involves cooking large pasta shells, preparing a taco-flavored meat mixture (usually ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning), stuffing the cooked shells with the mixture, topping with cheese and baking until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the meat with ingredients like black beans, lentils, or a mix of sautéed vegetables. You can season them with taco seasoning to maintain the flavor profile.
4. What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Shredded Mexican blend cheese, cheddar cheese, or a combination of both work well. They melt nicely and add a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the taco seasoning.
5. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for 2-3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven until heated through.
6. Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed pasta shells before baking. Arrange the stuffed shells on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time and temperature slightly, ensuring they are heated through.
7. What can I serve with Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells?
You can serve these shells with a variety of sides such as a green salad, garlic bread, or Mexican-inspired sides like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
8. Can I prepare Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This can be a time-saver for busy days or when you’re entertaining.
9. What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can experiment with different types of cheeses, add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the taco mixture, or even incorporate different proteins like shredded chicken or ground pork for unique flavors.
