Introduction:
Mexican Stuffed Shells are a delicious fusion of Italian pasta and vibrant Mexican flavors. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a mixture of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and spices, then baked to perfection with a tangy tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, a potluck, or any time you’re craving a hearty meal with a twist on classic stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
20 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup salsa (mild or hot, depending on preference)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded lettuce (for garnish)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in taco seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
Mix the cheese filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, salsa, and sour cream. Stir in the cooked beef mixture.
Stuff the shells: Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
Assemble the dish: Spread a thin layer of salsa or tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top. Pour the remaining salsa or sauce over the shells.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and serve: Once baked, sprinkle shredded lettuce and fresh cilantro over the top. Serve hot.
Description:
Mexican Stuffed Shells combine the comforting texture of pasta with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. The ground beef is perfectly seasoned with taco spices, creating a savory filling inside the large shells. A creamy cheese mixture helps to bind everything together, and the combination of salsa and tomato sauce brings the dish to life with tang and richness. It’s the best of both worlds, perfect for those looking for something familiar yet exciting.
Tips:
Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Add more veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, you can mix in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn with the beef filling.
Spicy version: If you like heat, use spicy salsa or add some chopped jalapeños to the filling.
Use chicken or beef alternatives: Swap the ground beef for chicken, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Customize the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a more dynamic flavor.
Variations:
Vegetarian Mexican Stuffed Shells: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also use black beans as a protein substitute.
Chicken Mexican Stuffed Shells: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast for a lighter version.
Extra cheesy: Add more mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy experience.
Spicy Mexican Stuffed Shells: For those who love heat, add some chopped fresh jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the filling.
Corrections:
If you’re using pre-cooked chicken or turkey, reduce the cooking time for the beef and just heat the meat mixture with the seasonings before stuffing the shells.
Ensure that the pasta shells are al dente; overcooking them can make them too soft and prone to breaking while stuffing.
Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this flavorful, cheesy, and hearty dish that blends two beloved cuisines—Italian and Mexican—into a meal that will satisfy everyone at your table!