Taco Stuffed Shells: A fusion of Mexican flavors and Italian pasta

Our Taco Stuffed Shells are filled with a savory taco-inspired mixture, topped with homemade Enchilada sauce, tons of cheese and baked until golden.

I had so much fun making Taco Lasagna the other week, that I stayed on the same train of thought. My family seriously cannot eat enough Mexican inspired food. This recipe is super simple to make and is similar to the taco lasagna, only we are using large pasta shells, stuffing them with taco meat, enchilada sauce, and cheese and baking them.

This Mexican-inspired version combines the comforting elements of stuffed shells with the classic flavors of tacos and enchiladas. They are simply delicious!

What You’ll Need

• Large Pasta Shells
• Ground Beef
• Onions and Garlic
• Taco Seasoning
• Enchilada Sauce
• Mexican Cheese
• Toppings
  

How to Make Taco Stuffed Shells

1. To prepare this dish, large pasta shells are cooked until al dente and then filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef that has been browned with taco seasonings and enchilada sauce. I prefer to make my own taco seasonings and sauce because I find store bought ones very high in sodium. You can find both of those recipes here and here as well as a link in the recipe card.
2. The shells are then placed in a large baking dish, topped with more enchilada sauce and a generous helping of shredded cheese, typically a Mexican blend or cheddar cheese.
3. The dish is then baked in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Chicken Taco Stuffed Shells: Replace the ground beef with cooked and shredded chicken. Season the chicken with taco spices and proceed with stuffing the shells as usual. This variation provides a lighter and poultry-based option.
2. Vegetarian Taco Stuffed Shells: Skip the meat altogether and create a vegetarian version. Use ingredients like black beans, corn, bell peppers, onions, and spices to create a flavorful vegetarian taco filling.
3. Spicy Taco Stuffed Shells: If you prefer some heat, kick up the spice level by adding diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to the taco meat filling. This variation adds a fiery twist to the dish.
4. Taco Stuffed Shells with Salsa: Instead of enchilada sauce, top the stuffed shells with your favorite salsa before baking. This variation infuses the dish with a tangy and vibrant flavor.
5. Taco Stuffed Shells Casserole: Instead of stuffing individual shells, layer the taco meat, shells, and cheese in a baking dish to create a casserole-style variation. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top. Bake until golden and bubbly for a comforting and easy-to-serve version of taco stuffed shells.

What to Serve with Taco Stuffed Shells:

Stuffed shells are a satisfying and flavorful main dish on their own, but if you’re looking to create a complete meal, here are some ideas for what you can serve alongside them:

1. Mexican Rice: Prepare a side of Mexican rice to complement the taco flavors. The rice can be seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, and can include ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
2. Refried Beans: Serve taco stuffed shells with a side of refried beans. You can make them from scratch or use canned refried beans for convenience. They provide a creamy and savory element that pairs well with the stuffed shells.
3. Guacamole and Salsa: Offer a selection of fresh guacamole and salsa as condiments. They provide a refreshing and tangy contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells. Include tortilla chips for dipping as well.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: Serve a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette dressing as a refreshing and light option to balance out the richness of the stuffed shells.
5. Toppings: Add some of your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, olives, cilantro, sliced avocado

TACO STUFFED SHELL RECIPE
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