Description
These Cheesy Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells are the ultimate comfort food, blending the bold, savory flavors of tacos with creamy, cheesy pasta shells. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground chicken or turkey)
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1/2 cup diced onion (optional, but delicious!)
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
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1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot – your choice!)
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
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20–25 jumbo pasta shells, cooked and drained
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Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onions until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Add taco seasoning and cream cheese, stirring until melted and well combined. Remove from heat.
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Spread 1/2 cup of salsa over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
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Stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture and place them open-side up in the baking dish.
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Pour remaining salsa over the stuffed shells and top with shredded cheese.
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Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.
Notes
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To add extra heat, use hot salsa or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the filling.
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Substitute ground beef with chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian option like black beans and corn for a healthier dish.
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Freezes well! Store baked or unbaked in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Comfort Food