Taco Stuffed Shells (Printer-Friendly)

Flavor-packed pasta shells stuffed with seasoned taco meat and cheese, then baked to perfection for an easy and satisfying weeknight meal.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Shells & Filling

01 - 20 jumbo pasta shells
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 pound ground beef
04 - 1 packet taco seasoning mix
05 - 1/3 cup water
06 - 1 cup salsa
07 - 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
08 - ½ cup cream cheese, softened
09 - 2 green onions, chopped

→ Toppings

10 - ½ cup sour cream (for garnish)
11 - ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
12 - ½ cup diced tomatoes

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
02 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and water; simmer for 2–3 minutes.
03 - Stir in cream cheese, salsa, and green onions. Cook until everything is well combined and creamy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
04 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill each pasta shell with the beef mixture and arrange in a baking dish.
05 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the stuffed shells. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
06 - Remove from oven and top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, and cilantro before serving.

# Extra Tips:

01 - You can prep the shells and stuffing ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
02 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.