Taco Stuffed Shells Casserole

We are all busy these days. Whether you are juggling a 9-to-5, or running from one activity to the next, when it comes to dinner, you want something easy that will keep your family happy. Enter this Taco Stuffed Shells Casserole! This is one of my favorite casserole recipes!

This dish packs all the flavors of taco night into one easy-to-make casserole that's sure to become a family favorite. This dinner combines the hearty flavor of beef tacos with the deliciousness of shell pasta, creating a meal that's sure to please the entire family!

Jump to Recipe - Print Recipe

Jump to:

• Taco Stuffed Shells
• Stuffed Shells Recipes
• Ingredients For Taco Stuffed Shells Casserole
• How to Make Beef Taco Stuffed Shells
• How To Make The Best Taco-Stuffed Shells Recipe
• How Can I Make Taco Stuffed Shells Healthier?
• Can I Make Stuffed Shells Ahead of Time?
• How Do You Store Taco Stuffed Shells?
• The Best Taco Recipes
• Must-Have Casserole Tools
• Mexican Recipes With Ground Beef
• 📖 Recipe

Taco Stuffed Shells

Taco Tuesday just got an upgrade! This Taco Stuffed Shells Casserole combines the best of the comforting richness of stuffed shells and the zesty kick of a beef taco.

If you are a busy parent, this recipe solves the common problem of finding a dinner that's quick, nutritious, and something the whole family will eat without complaint.

Mexican stuffed shells are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can even be made ahead of time. For a different flavor profile, try these Ricotta Stuffed Shells.

Stuffed Shells Recipes

I loved making stuffed shells recipes and have made them in many iterations. They are one of my favorite comfort foods! Whether you prefer classic Italian fillings or unique twists, check out these fun ways to prepare this versatile pasta:

• Stuffed Shells Recipe
• Chicken Taco Stuffed Shells
• Spinach Stuffed Shells
• Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Ingredients For Taco Stuffed Shells Casserole

• Ground Beef - Adds some filling protein to the dish. 85% lean ground beef provides good flavor without being overly fatty.
• Taco Seasoning Mix: You can use homemade taco seasoning or use a store bought seasoning to add taco flavor.
• Salsa: Adds a juicy, zesty kick. Use a mild salsa if you prefer less spice.
• Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese: Shredded for that cheesy goodness. You can also use a Mexican cheese blend.
• Green Chilies: Adds a subtle spice to the dish.
• Jumbo Pasta Shells: You will be cooking these before you add the filling.
• Optional Toppings: Customize this recipe by adding tomatoes, avocado, or cilantro.

How to Make Beef Taco Stuffed Shells

Cook the pasta shells according to the package directions and strain. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9x13 baking dish. Next, take a big skillet and cook the ground beef on medium-high heat until it's no longer pink. Drain the grease and throw in some taco seasoning and salsa to give it a kick.

Cook it all together until it is heated through. Take it off the heat and mix in some of the shredded cheese and some diced green chilies for that extra zing.

Now, grab that jumbo shell pasta you boiled and stuff it full with the meat mixture. Tuck it all nice and cozy into the baking pan.

Sprinkle the remainder of the cheese over the dish, because you can never have too much cheese. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake until the cheese is all gooey and bubbly. At the end of the cooking time, remove the foil and let it bake until the cheese turns golden.

When this comes out of the oven, it is ready to personalize. You can add some chopped tomatoes, avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro.

How To Make The Best Taco-Stuffed Shells Recipe

Tip 1: You can cook the shells in advance, then fill them with ground meat and bake them when you're ready. If you do this, spray the cooked pasta shells with olive oil after they have been drained to prevent them from sticking.

Tip 2: Cook up some extra shells because some can break during the cooking/stuffing process.

Tip 3: Set out a toppings bar with olives, avocado, and diced tomatoes. This way, everyone can customize their dish!

How Can I Make Taco Stuffed Shells Healthier?

This recipe can be made healthier if you substitute lean ground turkey for the beef. This reduces the overall fat content and provides a leaner protein source.

You can also add veggies like peppers and onions, which add more vitamins and fiber to the dish. Whole wheat shells instead of regular pasta are an easy substitution. Using low-fat cheese is another healthier option.

Can I Make Stuffed Shells Ahead of Time?

Yes you can! Prepare the dish according to the directions and before they are set to bake, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Then refrigerate for up to 2 days before cooking. When you are ready to bake just follow the directions for baking.

If you want to prep these and then freeze them, follow the directions above and freeze them for up to 3 months. Before baking, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

How Do You Store Taco Stuffed Shells?

Got leftovers? That's no problem. These shells store beautifully and taste just as good the next day. To store leftovers, cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer them to an airtight container.

Pop them in the refrigerator, and they'll be good for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat the shells in the microwave or in the oven until they're warm and bubbly.

The Best Taco Recipes

Now, if you are looking for more yummy taco-inspired recipes, you have come to the right place. Here are some of our favorites - great for Taco Tuesday or any day!

• Chicken Arabian Taco Recipe
• Chicken Taco Pasta Bake
• Easy Taco Pizza
• Easy Instant Pot Taco Meat Recipe

Must-Have Casserole Tools

To make this casserole, you'll need a skillet for cooking the ground beef, a 9x13-inch baking dish, and a stock pot for cooking pasta shells. Need to upgrade your kitchen tools? You can find all these on Amazon. They’re just a click away from being delivered right to your door.

Pyrex Deep 9x13-Inch Glass Baking Dish with Lid, Deep Casserole Dish, Glass Food Container, Oven, Freezer and Microwave Safe, Clear ContainerMora 9x13in Porcelain Baking Dish - Oven to Table, Freezer SafeFarberware Enamel on Steel Stock Pot/Stockpot with Lid - 16 Quart, Aqua BlueJYGMCO Colanders with Wood Handle - Kitchen Essential Metal Strainers & Colanders,Large Strainer Perfect for Pasta, Fruits, and More Food (Milky White 5.5 QT)HiramWare Stainless Steel Colander With Handle and Legs, Large Metal Pink Strainer for Pasta, Spaghetti, Berry, Veggies, Fruits, Noodles, Salads, 5-quart 10.5” Kitchen Mesh Colander, Dishwasher Safe[10 Pack] Glass Meal Prep Containers, Food Storage Containers with Lids Airtight, Glass Lunch Boxes, Microwave, Oven, Freezer and Dishwasher Safe

 

Mexican Recipes With Ground Beef

📖 Recipe