Taco-Filled Pasta Shells
TOTAL TIME: Prep: 20 min. + chilling Bake: 45 min.
YIELD: 2 casseroles (6 servings each).
I've been stuffing pasta shells with different fillings for years, but my family enjoys this version with taco-seasoned meat the most. The frozen shells are so convenient, because you can take out only the number you need for a single-serving lunch or family dinner. Just add zippy taco sauce and bake. —Marge Hodel, Roanoke, Illinois
Ingredients
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2 pounds ground beef
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2 envelopes taco seasoning
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1-1/2 cups water
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1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
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24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells
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1/4 cup butter, melted
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ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS (for each casserole):
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1 cup salsa
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1 cup taco sauce
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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1-1/2 cups crushed tortilla chips
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1 cup sour cream
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3 green onions, chopped
Directions
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1.
In a Dutch oven, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Transfer to a bowl; cool. Chill for 1 hour.
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2.
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Gently toss with butter. Fill each shell with about 3 tablespoons of meat mixture. Place 12 filled shells in a freezer container. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months.
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3.
To prepare remaining 12 stuffed shells, spoon 1 cup salsa into a greased 9-in. square baking dish. Top with shells and 1 cup taco sauce. Cover and bake at 350° for 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with 1 cup of each cheese and 1-1/2 cups chips. Bake 15 minutes longer or until heated through. Serve with sour cream and onions.
Nutrition Facts
2 shells: 492 calories, 31g fat (16g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 982mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
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