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Taco stuffed shells

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Delicious Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe

Taco stuffed shells are a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines, combining the savory flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with a unique and delicious meal. With a mix of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and jumbo pasta shells, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)

For the shells:

  • 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sour cream (for serving)
  • Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Filling

  1. Cook the Ground Beef:
  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  1. Season the Beef:
  • Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook until the mixture thickens.
  1. Add the Extras:
  • Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn kernels. Cook for a few minutes until heated through.
  1. Cheesy Goodness:
  • Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and well combined.

Preparing the Shells

  1. Cook the Pasta:
  • Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  1. Stuff the Shells:
  • Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture. Be generous with the filling, ensuring each shell is well-stuffed.
  1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
  • Spread a layer of salsa on the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up.
  1. Add More Salsa:
  • Pour the remaining salsa over the stuffed shells.
  1. Top with Cheese:
    • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the shells.

Baking

  1. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Serve with a dollop of sour cream.
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Tips for Perfect Taco Stuffed Shells

  1. Make Ahead:
  • You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  1. Mix It Up:
  • Feel free to experiment with different fillings. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef, and you can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
  1. Cheese Choices:
  • Use your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese can add a different flavor profile.
  1. Spicy Option:
  • If you like it spicy, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I freeze taco stuffed shells?
A1: Yes, taco stuffed shells can be frozen. Assemble the dish as instructed, but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2: Jumbo shells are ideal for this recipe, but you can experiment with other pasta shapes. Manicotti or cannelloni might work, though the texture and stuffing process will be different.

Q3: How do I reheat leftovers?
A3: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Q4: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A4: Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or increase the amount of beans and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.

Q5: What sides go well with taco stuffed shells?
A5: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or a side of guacamole and chips.

By following this recipe and incorporating these tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together the best of Italian and Mexican flavors. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of taco stuffed shells with your loved ones, and make this dish a staple in your meal rotation.

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