Mexican Stuffed Shells

These Mexican Stuffed Shells bring a fun twist to traditional pasta dishes by filling jumbo shells with seasoned ground beef, salsa, and Colby Jack cheese. Baked to perfection, they offer all the bold and savory flavors of tacos wrapped in the comforting texture of stuffed pasta. Perfect for taco lovers, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Stuffed Shells combine the best of both worlds: the hearty, cheesy goodness of stuffed shells and the bold flavors of tacos. The seasoned ground beef, savory salsa, and melted cheese create a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and completely satisfying. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and great for meal prep or serving at gatherings. Whether you’re craving tacos or pasta, this recipe hits the spot!

Ingredients

• 24 jumbo shells, cooked according to package directions

• 2 pounds lean ground beef

• 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion

• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic

• 2 ounces mild taco seasoning

• ¾ cup water

• 16 ounces mild salsa (your favorite brand)

• 2 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

• Taco sauce, optional garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Baking Dish:

2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.

Cook the Beef Mixture:

3. In a 3 to 4-quart saucepan, add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Season the Meat:

4. Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the taco seasoning, water, and salsa. Stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stuff the Shells:

5. Carefully spoon about 3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into each cooked shell. Place the stuffed shells into the prepared baking dish, arranging them 5 across and 4 down. You may have a few extra shells left over.

Bake the Shells:

6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Add Cheese and Final Bake:

7. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the stuffed shells. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rest and Serve:

8. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with taco sauce, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20 jumbo shells

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Option: For a spicier dish, add jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.

• Different Cheese: Swap Colby Jack cheese for cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them (without baking). When ready to bake, cover them with foil and bake as directed. Add a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Can I freeze these stuffed shells?

Yes! Once assembled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, or bake from frozen at 375°F for about 40-45 minutes.

What can I serve with Mexican Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells go great with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or even some seasoned corn on the cob. Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top for extra flavor!

Can I use a different type of pasta shell?

You can use any large pasta shells, such as conchiglie or manicotti, but jumbo shells are ideal for stuffing and hold the filling well.

Conclusion

Mexican Stuffed Shells are a fun and delicious twist on traditional pasta, combining all the bold flavors of tacos with the comfort of baked pasta. Filled with seasoned beef, salsa, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite for taco and pasta lovers alike. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a family dinner, these stuffed shells will be a hit every time!

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