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Mexican Stuffed Shells

Mexican Stuffed Shells
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Mexican Stuffed Shells combine jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy, seasoned ground beef and cheese mixture, topped with salsa and melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This comforting and flavorful dish brings a bold Mexican flair to a classic Italian pasta shell, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican seasoning blend (cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano)
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup salsa or enchilada sauce

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool, then set aside to fill.
  2. Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as you go. Stir in Mexican seasoning, refried beans, and cream cheese until everything is well combined and creamy.
  3. Stuff the shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooled pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Arrange them snugly in a baking dish to hold their shape during baking.
  4. Add sauce and cheese: Pour salsa or enchilada sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top for a gooey finish.
  5. Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking shells to prevent them from breaking while stuffing.
  • Combine multiple cheeses for an indulgent melt and richer flavor.
  • Taste the filling as you season to balance the spices perfectly to your liking.
  • Ensure the sauce covers the shells to keep them moist during baking.
  • Stuff shells a few hours before baking and refrigerate to save time on busy nights.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican stuffed shells, cheesy stuffed shells, Mexican pasta recipe, stuffed pasta shells, beef stuffed shells, weeknight dinner, family recipe

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/mexican-stuffed-shells/