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Taco-Filled Pasta Shells

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Big Bold Headline: Elevate Taco Night with Taco-Filled Pasta Shells: A Fusion Twist to Your Favorite Dish

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Prepare your taste buds for a fiesta of flavors with our Taco-Filled Pasta Shells recipe – a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines that will take your taco night to a whole new level! These jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, creamy cream cheese, and zesty taco blend cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on taco Tuesday or simply craving a delicious and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you coming back for more.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. Jumbo Shell Pasta
  • 1 lb. Ground Beef
  • 1 Packet Taco Seasoning
  • 5 oz. Cream Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions
  • 1 cup Shredded Taco Blend Cheese

Instructions:

  1. Cook Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo shell pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease, then add the taco seasoning to the beef according to the packet instructions.
  3. Add Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and well combined with the beef.
  4. Fill Pasta Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cream cheese mixture, arranging them in a single layer in a baking dish.
  5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded taco blend cheese over the stuffed pasta shells, covering them evenly.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or black beans for a vegetarian version of this dish.
  • Customize Fillings: Get creative with the filling by adding diced bell peppers, onions, corn, or black olives for extra flavor and texture.
  • Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
  • Make it Creamier: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt with the cream cheese for an even creamier texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Simply cook the ground turkey in the same way as the beef, seasoning it with the taco seasoning packet for flavor.
  2. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed pasta shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
  3. What can I serve with Taco-Filled Pasta Shells? These stuffed pasta shells pair well with a variety of sides, such as a crisp green salad, Spanish rice, refried beans, or cornbread.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

For a keto or low-carb version of Taco-Filled Pasta Shells, you can use low-carb pasta alternatives such as shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles. Substitute the taco seasoning packet with homemade keto-friendly taco seasoning, and use full-fat cream cheese and shredded cheese for added richness.

Taco-Filled Pasta Shells are a delicious and satisfying twist on traditional tacos that the whole family will love. With their flavorful filling and cheesy topping, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether enjoyed for a casual weeknight meal or served at a festive gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients and get ready to spice up your dinner table with this irresistible fusion dish – it’s a guaranteed winner!