Stuffed Cheese Shells: A Comforting Dinner Favorite
Stuffed Cheese Shells are the perfect marriage of Italian and Tex-Mex flavors. This dish combines tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy, cheesy taco filling, baked to perfection, and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe, these stuffed shells deliver both flavor and satisfaction.
—
Ingredients and Their Roles
1 pound ground beef: The savory base of the filling, providing rich, hearty flavor.
1 pack low-sodium taco seasoning: Adds classic Tex-Mex spices without overwhelming the dish.
4 oz cream cheese: Creates a creamy, smooth filling that balances the bold taco flavors.
20 jumbo pasta shells (about 6 ounces): The edible vessel that holds the delicious filling.
1 1/2 cups of sauce: Acts as a base in the baking dish to keep the shells moist.
1 cup taco sauce: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy layer of flavor on top of the shells.
1 cup cheddar cheese: Provides sharp, melty goodness.
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a creamy, mild contrast to the cheddar.
For garnish:
3 green onions: Fresh and crisp for a final flavor boost.
Sour cream: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, cheesy shells.
—
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
1. Brown the beef: In a large frying pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
2. Season and creamify: Add the taco seasoning and prepare according to the package directions. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and fully combined. Cover and let it simmer for a few minutes.
3. Cool the filling: Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. This ensures easier stuffing later.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
1. Boil a large pot of water and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and lay the shells individually on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
1. Prep the baking dish: Spread 1 1/2 cups of sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9″ x 13″ baking dish.
2. Stuff the shells: Fill each shell with 1-2 tablespoons of the meat mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish with the open side facing up.
3. Top with taco sauce: Drizzle 1 cup of taco sauce evenly over the shells.
Step 4: Bake
1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
1. Add chopped green onions and dollops of sour cream for a fresh finish.
—
Why This Recipe is Loved
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, flavorful filling.
Customizable: Easily adapt the filling with ground chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian substitute.
Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully, making it a great meal prep option.
—
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cheese Shells
1. Cool the filling: Warm filling can make the stuffing process messy.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked shells will hold their shape better during baking.
3. Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that prevent optimal melting.
—
Serving Suggestions
Pair these stuffed shells with:
A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a classic pairing.
A refreshing glass of iced tea or a bold red wine.
—
Conclusion
Stuffed Cheese Shells are the ultimate comfort food that brings the whole family together. With their irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy filling and perfectly baked shells, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Try it tonight and see why it’s always a big hit!
