Mexican Shells
Creamy and cheesy Mexican shells stuffed with seasoned hamburger, topped with onions and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions and drain.
- Brown hamburger meat in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Mix picante sauce, tomato sauce, and water together.
- Add 1/2 cup of the sauce mixture, 1/2 cup of cheese, and 1/4 cup of fried onions to the cooked meat.
- Pour half of the remaining sauce into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Stuff the cooked shells with the meat mixture and place them into the dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Cover and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and top with the remaining cheese and fried onions.
- Return to the oven just to brown the onions and melt the cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Mexican Shells, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger meat for a leaner option. You can also add black beans or corn to the meat mixture for extra texture and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or diced green chilies. For a richer flavor, try using a homemade picante sauce in place of the jarred version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican Shells with a fresh side salad or some cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with El Dorado Beef or a side of refried beans. For added flair, garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocados, or a dollop of sour cream. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
After serving, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Shells contains roughly 519 calories, with 21g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value) and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 812mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the Mexican Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead by assembling the shells and sauce, then refrigerating them until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella cheese, you can use Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. For a healthier option, consider using a reduced-fat cheese. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well to maintain that delicious gooey texture.
Can I freeze the Mexican Shells?
Yes, these shells freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).