If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful way to enjoy taco night, look no further than these delightful Taco Pasta Shells. This recipe combines the best of both worlds—tacos and pasta—in a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a gathering with friends. With large jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a savory ground beef mixture and loaded with cheese, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to make these delicious Taco Pasta Shells!
Why This Recipe Works
Taco Pasta Shells are a genius fusion of two beloved dishes. The jumbo pasta shells provide a sturdy base for a flavorful filling that combines the essence of tacos with the creaminess of a pasta bake. The ricotta cheese adds a rich, creamy texture, while the taco seasoning infuses every bite with the bold flavors we all love. Plus, the combination of cheeses creates a gooey, melty topping that makes each serving irresistible. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize the fillings and toppings to suit your taste.
What Goes Into Taco Pasta Shells
To create these scrumptious Taco Pasta Shells, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. large jumbo pasta shells
- 0.75 lb. ground beef
- 4 tablespoons preferred taco seasoning
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 4 cups Mexican cheese, divided use
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 large eggs
- 16 oz. enchilada sauce
- 4 oz. heavy cream
Tools & Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, gather the following tools and equipment:
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta shells
- Skillet – for browning the ground beef
- Baking dish – to assemble and bake the Taco Pasta Shells
- Mixing bowls – for combining the filling ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
The Method for Taco Pasta Shells
Creating Taco Pasta Shells is a straightforward process that results in a dish bursting with flavor. Follow these steps to bring your Taco Pasta Shells to life:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the large jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper. Mix well to coat the meat with the spices. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, 2 cups of Mexican cheese, chopped black olives, diced green chilies, and eggs. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 5: Stuff the Pasta Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Using a spoon, carefully fill each jumbo pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
Step 6: Add the Sauce and Cheese
Once all the shells are arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Drizzle the heavy cream for added richness. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of Mexican cheese over the entire dish.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the Taco Pasta Shells to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices if desired. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish with your loved ones!
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
There are plenty of ways to customize your Taco Pasta Shells to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Consider these alternatives:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Add corn or black beans to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Chef’s Rationale
The beauty of Taco Pasta Shells lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. By using common ingredients and a simple process, you can create a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures ensures that each bite is a delightful surprise. Plus, this recipe makes for great leftovers, as the flavors continue to meld and deepen over time. You can easily adjust the spice levels, making it a great option for families with varied tastes.
Storing Tips & Timelines
Storing your Taco Pasta Shells properly will keep them fresh and delicious for future meals:
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked shells for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- If you have baked leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Reader Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of jumbo shells?
Yes! While jumbo shells are perfect for stuffing, you can also use other pasta shapes like cannelloni or even large conchiglie. Just ensure that whatever shape you choose can hold the filling well.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re looking for a ricotta substitute, consider using cottage cheese blended until smooth or a vegan alternative like cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the spice level?
The spice level can be adjusted easily. Use mild taco seasoning for less heat, or add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
Before You Go
These Taco Pasta Shells are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors that bring everyone together. Whether you’re serving them for family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, they are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in this delightful dish. Happy cooking!
Taco Pasta Shells
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Pasta - Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the large jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef - In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Step 3: Season the Beef - Once the beef is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper. Mix well to coat the meat with the spices. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 4: Prepare the Filling - In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, 2 cups of Mexican cheese, chopped black olives, diced green chilies, and eggs. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Step 5: Stuff the Pasta Shells - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Using a spoon, carefully fill each jumbo pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
- Step 6: Add the Sauce and Cheese - Once all the shells are arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Drizzle the heavy cream for added richness. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of Mexican cheese over the entire dish.
- Step 7: Bake - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 8: Serve and Enjoy - Once baked, allow the Taco Pasta Shells to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices if desired. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish with your loved ones!
Notes
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze unbaked assembled shells for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat baked leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
