Why Make This Recipe
Taco-Filled Pasta Shells are a fun and flavorful twist on two classic dishes—tacos and pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners because it combines tasty ingredients in an easy-to-make format. You’ll love how the flavors blend together, and everyone will enjoy the hearty filling wrapped in pasta. Plus, you can customize it to suit your family’s taste!
How to Make Taco-Filled Pasta Shells
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 taco seasoning packet
- 1 can refried beans
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and refried beans to the meat. Mix until well combined and heated through.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of salsa on the bottom.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the meat and bean mixture, and place them in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining salsa over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with sour cream.
How to Serve Taco-Filled Pasta Shells
Taco-Filled Pasta Shells are best served hot and fresh from the oven. You can offer sour cream on the side for dipping and sprinkle extra chopped green onions on top for added color and flavor. Pair with a simple salad or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
How to Store Taco-Filled Pasta Shells
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Taco-Filled Pasta Shells
- Make it vegetarian by using canned black beans or lentils instead of meat.
- For more spice, add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the meat mixture.
- To save time, prepare the filling in advance and assemble the dish when you’re ready to cook.
Variation
You can switch out the ground beef or turkey for shredded chicken or even cooked sausage. Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist!
FAQs
-
Can I use regular pasta instead of jumbo shells?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta, but jumbo shells are great for holding the filling. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. -
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more taco seasoning, some hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for extra heat.
Taco-Filled Pasta Shells
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can refried beans
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and refried beans to the meat. Mix until well combined and heated through.
Assembly
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of salsa on the bottom.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the meat and bean mixture, and place them in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining salsa over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Baking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with sour cream.