Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells: When Taco Night Meets Comfort-Food Pasta 🌮🍝

If you love bold taco flavors and creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells are about to become a new favorite in your kitchen. This dish takes the best parts of taco night—seasoned ground meat, zesty spices, melty cheese—and tucks them neatly inside tender jumbo pasta shells. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that feels special without being complicated.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells bring fun, flavor, and comfort to the table in every bite.

Why You’ll Love Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Two favorites in one dish: Tacos and baked pasta combined
Easy to customize: Use beef, chicken, or turkey and adjust spice levels
Make-ahead friendly: Assemble early and bake when ready
Great for leftovers: Even better the next day

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta

Jumbo pasta shells
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Taco Filling

Ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Tomato sauce or salsa
Black beans (optional, drained and rinsed)
Corn kernels (optional)

For the Cheese Layer

Cream cheese, softened
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican-blend cheese

For Topping

Extra shredded cheese
Chopped green onions
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Sour cream or guacamole (for serving)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente. They should be tender but firm enough to hold their shape when stuffed.
Drain the shells and spread them on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together.

Step 2: Prepare the Taco Filling

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and mix well.
Add the tomato sauce or salsa and simmer for a few minutes until the mixture is thick and flavorful. If using black beans or corn, fold them in at this stage. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.