Print

Creamy Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 80 reviews

Creamy Taco Stuffed Shells are jumbo pasta shells filled with a flavorful seasoned ground beef mixture, topped with creamy queso and melted Cheddar cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. This comforting Tex-Mex inspired casserole is an easy weeknight dinner option that combines hearty meat, cheese, and pasta in one delicious dish.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces jumbo shell pasta

Beef Filling

  • 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 ounce taco seasoning
  • ⅓ cup water
  • ⅓ cup chopped cilantro

Toppings

  • 1 ½ cups queso (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese, grated
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Taco sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed shells.
  2. Cook pasta shells: Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the shells, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and let them cool so they are easier to fill.
  3. Prepare beef filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add the taco seasoning and ⅓ cup water, stirring well until the seasoning is absorbed. Mix in chopped cilantro for freshness and flavor.
  4. Prepare casserole dish: Spray a 13×9 inch casserole dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Fill shells: Using a spoon, fill each cooled jumbo pasta shell with about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the seasoned beef mixture. Arrange the filled shells evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
  6. Add toppings: Spread queso evenly over the filled shells, then sprinkle the grated Cheddar cheese on top to create a cheesy crust.
  7. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, drizzle taco sauce over the shells, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
  9. Reheating leftover casserole: Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed until heated through.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, add extra taco seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef filling.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner variation.
  • Homemade queso cheese sauce can be used for richer flavor instead of store-bought.
  • Jumbo shells must be cooked al dente to maintain shape during baking.
  • This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking to save time on busy days.

Find it online: https://recipeloom.com/creamy-taco-stuffed-shells-recipe/