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Stuffed taco pasta shells filled with cheese and seasoned ground beef.

Stuffed Taco Pasta Shells

A delightful mash-up of taco flavors and baked pasta, these stuffed taco pasta shells are perfect for weeknight dinners and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or 80/20) Lean enough to avoid excessive grease, but not too dry
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning Store-bought or homemade
  • 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature For easier melting
  • 8 oz jumbo pasta shells About 20–24 shells
  • 10 oz enchilada sauce Red enchilada sauce works well
  • 1 cup salsa Mild to medium depending on heat preference
  • 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add jumbo shells and cook about 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Stir the taco seasoning into the beef. Add the cream cheese and mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the enchilada sauce and salsa.
  6. Pour half of the sauce mixture into a 9x13-inch baking pan. Spoon the beef mixture into each shell and arrange them seam-side up. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the shells.
  7. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella over the shells, and return to the oven for 8–10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  9. Let the pan rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with your favorite taco toppings if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Assemble shells for freezing; let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.