Taco Stuffed Shells

The taco stuffed shells recipe is a family favorite in our house. My husband and I love to make them for dinner, and our kids always gobble them up.

They’re so easy to make, and they’re delicious!

This is a dish that is so good it is hard to imagine not making it. When you stuff the jumbo pasta shells with taco-flavored meat and then top it with gooey cheese, it is almost heaven in a baking dish.

The stuffed jumbo pasta shells can also be topped with your favorite toppings for Mexican food.

Let’s get started!

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why we love this recipe

This dish is so easy to make, it is a meal you know the whole family loves and it tastes great. It is also a versatile recipe.

What is a Taco Stuffed Pasta Shell?

The jumbo pasta shells are boiled according to package directions, they are then filled with Taco flavored meat and covered in Cheddar Cheese. They are baked and can be topped with any toppings of your choosing.

Are Taco Shells healthy?

These taco stuffed shells are a delicious way to enjoy Mexican night. The pasta is also a little healthier than other taco shell options.

What is the difference between manicotti and stuffed jumbo shells?

Manicotti is a tube-shaped pasta that can be stuffed. The jumbo shells are just what it states, a shell-shaped pasta.

Can I substitute shells for manicotti?

In a manicotti dish, it would be alright to substitute the shells for the manicotti. However, substituting manicotti in the taco stuffed shell recipe may be difficult to actually stuff the manicotti.

What should I serve with Taco stuffed Shell pasta?

This dish could be served with salad as a side dish. You can top the shells with all your favorite taco toppings.

Ingredients

• Jumbo Shell Pasta
• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Minced garlic
• Cream cheese
• Salsa
• Chopped green onions
• Shredded taco blend cheese

How to make Taco Stuffed Shells:

Step 1. Boil the jumbo shell pasta until al dente, drain, and rinse in cold water to keep the noodles from sticking together.

Step 2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 3. Add the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat, and saute until completely browned. Drain and excess fat.

Step 4. Mix in the minced garlic and saute for 30 seconds more.

Step 5. Add the taco seasoning packet, cream cheese, and salsa to the skillet with the beef.

Step 6. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted. Let the meat mixture cool.

Step 7. Stuff the cooked jumbo shell pasta with the ground beef mixture and place it into a well-greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 8. Sprinkle with the cheese.

Step 9. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Step 10. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions and serve.

THANKS FOR PINING!

How should I store the Taco Stuffed Pasta shells?

The food needs to be cooled to room temperature first. Then it can be placed into an airtight container and put into the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. You could also freeze the stuffed taco shells for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat the dish?

Place the dish on a baking tray and reheat at 350*. This can also be heated in the microwave oven until it reaches the desired temp.

More Easy Mexican Recipes

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole – Flavorful, quick, and easy!

Mexican Taco Lasagna – Perfect for anyone who loves Mexican food!

Easy Mexican Street Corn – Delicious! So fire up the grill and get cookin’!

Other pasta recipes you will love!

Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta – The best part? It was so easy to make!

Chicken Club Pasta Salad – Light and healthy!

Pasta Slaw – SO GOOD!