Mexican-Style Stuffed Shells

The best Mexican-style stuffed shells combine classic Italian pasta with bold Mexican flavors. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a seasoned ground meat mixture, rich salsa, and melted cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

🍝 12 oz jumbo pasta shells

🧄 1 tbsp olive oil

🧄 1 tbsp minced garlic

🥩 1 lb ground beef or turkey

🌿 1 tsp dried oregano

🌿 1 tsp cumin

🌶️ 1 tsp chili powder

🧂 1 tsp onion powder

🧂 1 tsp garlic powder

🧂 1 tsp paprika

🧂 1/2 tsp salt

🧂 1/2 tsp black pepper

🍅 1 cup store-bought salsa

🍅 1 cup homemade salsa

🧀 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

🧀 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

🌿 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1- Boil the Pasta:

- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

- Cook the jumbo shells until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2- Sauté the Garlic:

- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

3- Cook the Meat:

- Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet.

- Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned.

4- Season the Meat:

- Mix in oregano, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

- Stir well and cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.

5- Add Salsa:

- Pour in both the store-bought and homemade salsa.

- Stir and let it simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.

6- Incorporate Cheese:

- Add shredded sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese.

- Stir until the cheese melts and blends into the meat mixture.

7- Stuff the Shells:

- Spoon the meat mixture into each cooked pasta shell.

- Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.

8- Top and Bake:

- Sprinkle the remaining cheese and fresh parsley over the shells.

- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Equipment: Large pot, skillet, spatula, baking dish

Cooking Tips

- For extra flavor, add a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture.

- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.

- Use a mix of Monterey Jack and mozzarella for a creamier texture.

- Let the baked shells rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the filling.

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Mrs Bakers Kitchen

Mexican-Style Stuffed Shells