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Mexican Stuffed Shells

Carly
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Mexican Stuffed Shells: A Flavorful Fusion

Mexican Stuffed Shells

This recipe is a delightful fusion of Italian pasta and Mexican flavors, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Mexican Stuffed Shells are a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped in tender pasta shells and bathed in a zesty tomato sauce. It’s a dish that's sure to impress your family and friends with its bold taste and easy preparation.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 (4 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 cup salsa (medium or hot, depending on your preference)
  • 1 cup taco sauce
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped green onions, cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cheese melts perfectly and the shells are heated through.
  2. Prepare the beef filling: Brown the ground beef in a skillet until no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning according to the package directions. Reduce heat to low, add the softened cream cheese, and stir until melted and combined. Let the mixture cool completely before filling the shells.
  3. Cook the pasta shells: Follow the package directions for cooking the pasta shells. Drain them thoroughly and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool to prevent sticking.
  4. Assemble the stuffed shells: Pour a layer of salsa into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. This will create a flavorful base for the shells. Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the cooled beef mixture. Arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish, open side up.
  5. Create the topping: Pour the taco sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a rich and creamy texture.
  6. Bake to perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes, such as sour cream, guacamole, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro, to add extra flavor and texture.

Tips for Elevated Taste:

  • Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for a hotter salsa and taco sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
  • Protein variations: For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
  • Add some crunch: Incorporate black beans or corn into the beef mixture for added texture and a burst of flavor.
  • Make it ahead: Prepare the beef filling and cook the pasta shells in advance. Assemble the stuffed shells and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
  • Double the recipe: This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd. Double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish to accommodate more shells.

By following these tips and incorporating your favorite ingredients, you can create a truly unforgettable Mexican Stuffed Shells experience.

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