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Taco-Stuffed Shells

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Jumbo pasta shells filled with seasoned beef and tangy salsa, topped with melty cheese for a comforting, easy dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Jumbo Pasta Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells Boil until al dente. Can substitute with large manicotti tubes.
Filling Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground beef Lean or 80/20 works; leaner needs a splash of oil.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Yellow or white onion is fine.
  • 1 cup Salsa Choose mild, medium, or hot depending on heat preference.
Cheese Blend
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded Rich and melty, pairs perfectly.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Provides smoothness and delightful melt.
  • to taste Additional cheese for topping Use extra cheddar or a Mexican blend.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook jumbo shells 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and cool on a tray to prevent sticking.
  3. Shred cheeses and chop the onion while shells cook.
Cooking the Filling
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the meat, until beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 6–8 minutes.
  2. Drain excess grease if desired. Stir in salsa and simmer 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Assembly
  1. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into each cooled shell. Place stuffed shells, seam-side up, in a lightly oiled 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Mix the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack together and sprinkle about two-thirds over the stuffed shells. Reserve the rest for topping.
Baking
  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes to heat through.
  2. Remove foil, add remaining cheese, and bake 5–8 more minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serving
  1. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with salsa, sour cream, sliced green onions, or cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g

Notes

Great leftovers that reheat beautifully. Can make ahead by assembling and refrigerating; bake when ready. Pair with side salad or tortilla chips.
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