Taco Stuffed Shells
A fun twist on taco night! Tender jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory, seasoned ground beef and bean mixture, then baked with salsa and melted cheese. It's a crowd-pleasing casserole that brings the best of Italian and Tex-Mex flavors to your dinner table, perfect for a family meal.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook Pasta and Preheat Oven
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- c.Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then the jumbo shells. Cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite), typically 8-10 minutes.
- d.Drain the shells carefully and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set them aside in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent tearing.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Taco Filling
- b.While the pasta cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- c.Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- d.Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- e.Stir in the taco seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Pour in the water, then add the rinsed black beans and corn. Stir everything to combine.
- f.Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Stuffed Shells
- b.Spread 1/2 cup of the salsa evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This prevents the shells from sticking.
- c.Using a small spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the taco meat mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in a single layer in the baking dish.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake the Casserole
- b.Pour the remaining 1 cup of salsa over the stuffed shells, covering them as evenly as possible.
- c.Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top.
- d.Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the filling is heated through. The edges should be slightly golden brown.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the shells to set and makes serving easier.
- c.Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve warm with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, diced avocado, or jalapeños.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Cook a few extra pasta shells, as some may tear during boiling or handling.
- 2To prevent shells from sticking after cooking, toss them with a tiny bit of olive oil or lay them out on a baking sheet without touching.
- 3For a creamier filling, stir 2 ounces of softened cream cheese into the meat mixture after removing it from the heat.
- 4This dish is perfect for meal prep. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
- 5Don't overstuff the shells. A heaping tablespoon is usually enough to fill them without causing them to split.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
VegetarianVegetarian
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a 15-ounce can of rinsed lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You can also add finely chopped mushrooms and bell peppers for more texture.
Spice it UpSpice it Up
Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for extra heat. Using a spicy salsa will also increase the spice level.
Cheesy UpgradeCheesy Upgrade
Use a mix of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor. A sprinkle of cotija cheese after baking adds a salty, authentic touch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Ground beef and black beans provide a substantial amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Good Source of Fiber
Black beans and corn contribute significant dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Provides Essential Minerals
This dish offers important minerals like iron from the ground beef, vital for oxygen transport in the blood, and magnesium and potassium from the black beans, which support nerve function and heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Taco Stuffed Shells can be part of a balanced diet. It provides a good amount of protein from beef and fiber from beans. To make it healthier, you can use lean ground turkey or a plant-based protein, opt for low-fat cheese, and serve it with a side salad.