Mexican Stuffed Shells
Mexican Stuffed Shells combine tender pasta shells filled with savory ground beef and melted Monterey Jack cheese, topped with spicy picante sauce and crunchy French fried onions. This flavorful dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy bold, cheesy, and southwestern-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Combine the picante sauce, water, and tomato sauce in a bowl.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the cooked ground beef with chopped green chilies, 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and 2 ounces of French fried onions.
- Pour half of the remaining sauce mixture into the bottom of a 10-inch round or 8x12-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese and French fried onions on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using taco seasoning in the ground beef mixture. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use different types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta shells.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Mexican stuffed shells with a side of Mexican corn salad or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Mexican Cornbread Casserole for a hearty dinner. Top with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Stuffed Shells contains roughly 200 calories, with 7g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 964mg per serving (42% 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 make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled stuffed shells before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of picante sauce?
If you don't have picante sauce, you can substitute it with salsa or a homemade tomato sauce with added spices for a similar flavor. Adjust the heat level according to your preference.
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).