Tacos In A Shell
Flavorful taco-inspired shells filled with seasoned beef and melted cheese, topped with crunchy chips and fresh green onions for a satisfying, family-friendly dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions; drain well and add 2 tablespoons butter or margarine.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Cube the cream cheese and let it melt into the cooked beef.
- Stir in chili powder.
- Stuff the seasoned beef and cream cheese mixture into the cooked shells and place them in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Pour taco sauce over the stuffed shells and cover the pan with foil.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then uncover.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack (or mozzarella) cheese over the shells and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Garnish with crushed tortilla chips and chopped green onions if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using a flavored cream cheese, such as garlic or herb. If you want a bit more spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, replace the meat with black beans or lentils to maintain the protein content.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious tacos in a shell with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. For an extra kick, offer sliced avocados, sour cream, and fresh salsa on the side. They also pair beautifully with Supreme Nachos for a fun, shareable meal experience. Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can add a splash of taco sauce on top before reheating to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tacos In A Shell contains roughly 806 calories, with 40g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), calcium (65% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1346mg per serving (59% 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 freeze the stuffed shells before baking them?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary.
What can I use instead of taco sauce?
If you don't have taco sauce, you can use enchilada sauce as a substitute or make your own by mixing tomato sauce with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to taste. A homemade blend allows you to control the spice level and flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner without the hassle of preparation.
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).