Name: Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 package taco seasoning; to taste salt; to taste black pepper; ½ cup water; 15 pieces jumbo pasta shells; 1 and ½ cups crushed tomatoes; 1 cup salsa; 1 and ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack); 2 pieces Roma tomatoes (chopped); 4 pieces green onions (chopped)

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells are a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods: tacos and pasta. This easy-to-make dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melty cheese, all stuffed inside jumbo pasta shells and topped with zesty salsa and crushed tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why It’s My Go-To

There’s something undeniably satisfying about Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells. They bring together the bold, savory flavors of taco night with the comforting, hearty nature of pasta. It’s like a hug in a dish! Not only is this recipe incredibly delicious, but it’s also versatile and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup—a win-win in my book!

Ingredient Notes

To create the perfect Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the garlic and beef.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds aromatic flavor.
1 lb ground beef – The main protein; feel free to substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed – Packed with protein and fiber.
1 package taco seasoning – A blend of spices that brings the taco flavor.
Salt and black pepper – To taste.
½ cup water – Helps to combine the ingredients.
15 jumbo pasta shells – The perfect vessel for stuffing.
1 and ½ cups crushed tomatoes – Provides a saucy base.
1 cup salsa – Adds a fresh, zesty kick.
1 and ½ cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese – For that gooey, cheesy goodness.
2 Roma tomatoes, chopped – For garnish and fresh flavor.
4 green onions, chopped – Adds a fresh crunch on top.

Equipment Breakdown

To make Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:

Large skillet – For cooking the beef and combining the filling.
Large pot – To boil the pasta shells.
Baking dish – To assemble and bake the stuffed shells.
Mixing spoon – For stirring and combining ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure proper measurements.
Knife and cutting board – For chopping veggies.

Method: Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the black beans, taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, and ½ cup of water. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Fill the Pasta Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your cooked pasta shells and carefully spoon the beef and bean mixture into each shell, filling them generously.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tomatoes on the bottom. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes and salsa over the shells, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the shells. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped Roma tomatoes and green onions for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe!

Customize for Your Needs

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own:

Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian protein like lentils or quinoa.
Use your favorite type of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the filling for added nutrition.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues while making your Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells, consider the following tips:

If the pasta shells break while cooking, make sure to stir them gently and avoid overcooking.
For a thicker filling, reduce the amount of water added when cooking the beef.
If the cheese isn’t melting properly, try covering the dish with foil during the first half of the baking time.
For extra flavor, consider baking the shells longer until they are slightly crispy on top.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: If you want to make this ahead of time, freeze the assembled but unbaked dish, covered tightly with foil. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes or until heated through. If refrigerated, it should take about 20-30 minutes.

Common Questions

Can I make Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for longer storage. Simply bake when ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells?

These stuffed shells are a meal on their own, but you can serve them with a side salad, garlic bread, or some fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a complete feast.

Can I use regular pasta instead of jumbo shells?

Absolutely! While jumbo shells are ideal for stuffing, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for smaller pasta shapes.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein such as lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute. You can also increase the amount of beans and add more vegetables.

Final Bite

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells are not just a meal; they are an experience. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures, making them the perfect dish for family gatherings, casual dinners, or a cozy night in. The combination of savory beef, hearty beans, and melty cheese all nestled in tender pasta creates a comfort food masterpiece that is both satisfying and delicious.

This Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. With its easy preparation and endless customization options, you can enjoy this dish in countless ways. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!