Stuffed Pasta Shell Tacos
A flavorful fusion of stuffed pasta shells with seasoned ground beef, melted cheeses, and crunchy toppings, perfect for a hearty and fun family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef; drain.
- Add cream cheese, sour cream, and chili powder to beef; stir until well blended.
- Boil pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- Stuff meat mixture into cooked shells; place in a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread taco sauce over stuffed shells.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Remove foil, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips and cheeses over shells; bake uncovered for another 15 minutes.
- Top with shredded lettuce, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, and additional toppings as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of shredded Monterey Jack cheese into the meat mixture. If you're looking to lighten the dish, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. You can also substitute the taco sauce with salsa for a different flavor profile. To make this dish vegetarian, replace the meat with black beans or lentils.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed pasta shell tacos with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Mexican recipes like La Pasada or Southwest Hot Chip Dip. For added flavor, offer a variety of toppings such as guacamole, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed pasta shell tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Pasta Shell Tacos contains roughly 402 calories, with 14g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1132mg per serving (49% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for ground beef. You could also use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the meat you choose.
How do I make these pasta shells ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the dish tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze the stuffed pasta shells?
Yes, these stuffed shells freeze well! Assemble them in a freezer-safe container before baking, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).