Description
These hearty stuffed shells blend seasoned ground beef, taco seasoning, and melted cheeses in tender jumbo pasta shells for a Mexican-Italian fusion dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Restaurant-style flavor with easy preparation.
Ingredients
1 pound jumbo pasta shells
1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend or ground turkey)
2 packets taco seasoning (about 2.5 oz total)
1.5 cups salsa (medium heat preferred)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mix sharp and mild if possible)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chopped cilantro or green onions (optional garnish)
Cooked pasta shells in original cooking liquid (for assembling)
1/2 cup tap water or beef broth
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente
Drain and keep 1/2 cup cooking water for later use
Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through
Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning, salsa, ricotta cheese, and 1/4 cup water until well combined
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer 1/2 cup fat-free, reduced sodium marinade or salsa (if using)
Carefully stuff cooked pasta shells with beef mixture and place in baking dish
Top generously with remaining cheese
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10-15 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned
Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving
Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired
Notes
Use the reserved pasta water to help the filling stick to the shells
For best texture, work quickly with just-cooked shells as they become more pliable
Mild cheddar is forgiving for melting, but sharp adds deeper flavor
Ricotta aerates the filling for a lighter texture
Prepare assembled shells up to 24 hours ahead and store in the refrigerator before baking
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Italian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 stuffed shells
- Calories: 495
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg