Taco Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells until just slightly firm to the bite, about 13 minutes. Drain the shells well and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water, then cook over low heat until thickened, approximately 5 minutes. Next, stir in the refried beans and 3/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff the Shells: Spoon the meat and bean mixture into the cooked pasta shells, dividing it evenly among them.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 1/4 cup of salsa over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, then spoon the remaining salsa over the top.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the sliced green onion and remaining shredded Cheddar cheese over the top. Serve the Taco Stuffed Shells hot, with a dollop of sour cream on the side.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Shells: Opt for jumbo pasta shells to hold the hearty filling without splitting.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and salsa to your desired level of spiciness.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights.

Serving Suggestions

Taco Stuffed Shells are a meal in themselves, but you can round out the spread with a side of Mexican rice, a crisp green salad, or some fresh guacamole. Pair with your favorite Mexican beverage for a complete fiesta-inspired feast.

Health Considerations

While Taco Stuffed Shells are undeniably delicious, they can be quite rich and hearty. For a lighter option, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef, and opting for reduced-fat sour cream and cheese. Additionally, you can add extra veggies like diced bell peppers or black beans for added fiber and nutrients.