Taco Stuffed Shells

Taco Stuffed Shells are such a fun and flavorful twist on classic Italian stuffed shells, blending cheesy taco goodness with pasta. Here’s a solid recipe for you:

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Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe

Ingredients:

• 20–24 jumbo pasta shells

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)

• 2/3 cup water

• 1 cup salsa (your favorite kind)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a Mexican blend)

• 1/2 cup cream cheese (optional, for a creamy filling)

• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

• Sour cream, avocado, or sliced jalapeños (optional toppings)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: 350°F (175°C)

2. Cook Pasta Shells: Boil shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool.

3. Prepare Taco Filling:

   • In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned.

   • Drain excess fat.

   • Add taco seasoning and water, simmer for 5 minutes.

   • Stir in cream cheese (if using) until melted and well blended.

   • Let it cool slightly, then mix in about 1/2 cup of each shredded cheese.

4. Stuff the Shells:

   • Spread 1/2 cup salsa in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.

   • Fill each pasta shell with a spoonful of taco meat mixture.

   • Place stuffed shells in the dish over the salsa.

5. Top It Off:

   • Spoon remaining salsa over the shells.

   • Sprinkle with the rest of the shredded cheese.

6. Bake:

   • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

   • Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and melted.

7. Serve:

   • Garnish with cilantro.

   • Add optional toppings like sour cream, avocado, green onions, or jalapeños.

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Want a version that’s spicier, vegetarian, or even crockpot-friendly? I got you.