If you love Mexican flavors and comfort food, this Mexican Stuffed Shells recipe is a must-try! It’s a fusion of classic Italian pasta shells stuffed with a savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy ground beef filling that’s baked to perfection. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Easy to make – Simple steps for a stress-free meal.
✔️ Full of flavor – A rich, creamy, and slightly spicy filling.
✔️ Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add more cheese!
✔️ Family-friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Stuffed Shells
- 1 (12-ounce) package jumbo pasta shells – The perfect vessel for holding the delicious filling.
- 1 pound ground beef – Provides a hearty, flavorful base. You can also use ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained – Adds moisture, slight acidity, and a kick of spice.
- 1 (10-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy, rich texture that binds everything together.
- 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained – Brings mild heat and authentic Mexican flavor.
- ½ cup shredded Mexican blend cheese – A combination of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Queso Quesadilla, and Asadero for ultimate cheesiness.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro – Adds a fresh, bright finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
3. Prepare the Filling
Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies, cream of mushroom soup, chopped green chilies, and shredded cheese. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Fill the Shells
Take each cooked pasta shell and spoon in the beef mixture until full. Place them in a greased baking dish in a single layer.
5. Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Mexican Stuffed Shells
✅ Want it spicier? Use hot diced green chilies or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
✅ Cheese lover? Add extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey, golden finish.
✅ Make it ahead! Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
✅ Looking for a twist? Swap the ground beef for chorizo or shredded chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Mexican Stuffed Shells with:
🌮 Mexican Rice – A perfect side to soak up all the flavors.
🥗 Fresh Salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
🥑 Guacamole or Salsa – Adds extra flavor and freshness.
🌽 Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – A sweet and smoky complement.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Stuffed Shells recipe combines the comfort of baked pasta with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, making it a dish the whole family will love. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and customizable to your taste. Try it tonight and let every bite take you on a delicious journey!
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