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An overhead close-up shot of Mexican stuffed shells arranged in a baking dish, filled with seasoned ground beef and covered in melted cheddar cheese.

Taco Stuffed Shells: The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Recipe

These Taco Stuffed Shells are the ultimate weeknight dinner, combining savory taco-seasoned ground beef, salsa, and melted cheese all packed into tender jumbo pasta shells. An easy, crowd-pleasing recipe the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells about 24 shells
  • 1 lb lean ground beef 90/10 recommended
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning about 1 ounce
  • 1.5 cups salsa divided
  • 2 cups shredded cheese blend cheddar and Monterey Jack
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, diced tomatoes

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Large Pot

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the diced onion over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1/2 cup of salsa and mix to combine.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the remaining 1 cup of salsa into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Stuff each shell with the meat mixture and arrange them in the dish.
  5. Top the shells with the shredded cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Cook a few extra shells in case some tear during boiling.
Grating your own cheese from a block results in a better melt.
Assemble the dish up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator before baking.