If you're looking to bring the vibrant flavors of tacos to your pasta night, these Taco Stuffed Shells are the perfect solution! Combining tender jumbo shells with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings, this recipe delivers big on taste while being easy to prepare. It's a fun, family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Let’s dive into how to create this delightful fusion dish step by step!

Why This Recipe Is So Irresistible

These taco stuffed shells aren’t just another pasta dish—they’re a celebration of bold flavors:

Taco-Inspired Filling : Seasoned ground beef, zesty spices, and fresh toppings make every bite feel like taco night.
Cheesy Comfort : Layers of gooey cheese ensure maximum indulgence.
Customizable : Add or swap ingredients like black beans, corn, or avocado for endless variations.
Easy to Make : Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Whether served as a main course or paired with a side salad, this dish promises to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shells:

16 jumbo pasta shells (any brand will do)

For the Taco Filling:

1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion , finely chopped
1 bell pepper , diced (optional, for extra crunch)
1 packet taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)

Optional Toppings:

Fresh salsa or pico de gallo
Chopped lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Avocado slices or guacamole
Crushed tortilla chips (for added crunch)
Fresh cilantro , chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Lightly grease the cooked shells with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Taco Filling

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked through. Stir in the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 3–4 minutes , or until softened.

Add the taco seasoning and stir well, ensuring the beef is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2 minutes , then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Shells

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled taco filling with half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Spoon the taco mixture generously into each cooked shell, filling them to the brim. Place the stuffed shells seam-side down in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

4. Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tops of the stuffed shells.

5. Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes , or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted.

Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly and develop a golden crust.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Top each one with your favorite taco-inspired toppings—salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips—and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips for Success

Use Lean Ground Beef : Opt for 90% lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t Overfill the Shells : Fill the shells generously but avoid cramming too much filling, which can cause them to split during baking.
Make It Ahead : Prepare the taco filling and assemble the shells up to a day in advance. Simply refrigerate and bake when ready.
Go Vegetarian : Swap out the ground beef for seasoned black beans or crumbled tofu for a plant-based version.

Conclusion

This Taco Stuffed Shells dish is more than just dinner—it’s a fusion of two beloved meals that brings excitement to the table. With its juicy filling, cheesy exterior, and customizable toppings, it’s guaranteed to become a hit in your household.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor this delightful creation! Don’t forget to share your results with us in the comments below—we’d love to see how they turned out.

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other articles for more dinner inspiration and easy cooking ideas. Happy cooking, and remember—life’s too short not to enjoy something delicious now and then! 🍴✨