Go Back
Cheesy Taco Surprise Shells are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, combining the comforting textures of pasta with the bold flavors of taco fillings. This fun dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with delicious surprises that make it a hit at the dinner table. Families will love gathering around to enjoy this unique take on a classic favorite.

Cheesy Taco Surprise Shells

Delicious and cheesy stuffed pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef, black beans, and corn, topped with melted cheddar cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 5

Ingredients
  

  • 12.0 pieces large pasta shells
  • 1.0 pound ground beef
  • 1.0 ounce taco seasoning mix
  • 1.0 cup salsa
  • 1.0 cup black beans
  • 1.0 cup corn kernels
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup cream cheese
  • 1.0 cup sour cream
  • 0.0 none Chopped green onions
  • 0.0 none Cilantro
  • 0.0 none Salt
  • 0.0 none Pepper

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside on a cooling rack to prevent sticking.
  • Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, and corn. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the mixture is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Make it Cheesy: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the beef mixture. Stir until well combined, creating a creamy and cheesy filling.
  • Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350. Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheesy taco mixture.
  • Prepare for Baking: Spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the salsa.
  • Top it Off: Spoon additional salsa over the shells and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  • Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  • Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on top and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro, if desired.

Notes

Feel free to customize the spice level by choosing your preferred salsa.
Keyword cheesy, easy, pasta, taco