Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab your baking dish. Now, it’s time to fill those adorable pasta shells! I like to use a spoon to add a generous portion of the cheesy meat mixture into each shell, and then arrange them in the baking dish. Don’t worry if they look a bit messy; it just adds to the charm! Once all the shells are stuffed, I drizzle salsa over the top and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese for that gooey quality we all love. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and let the cheese bubble and brown for another 10 minutes. The aroma wafting through my kitchen will have everyone eager to dig in! I typically garnish these tasty shells with a sprinkle of green onions and, if I’m feeling adventurous, some fresh cilantro for extra freshness. Let the dish cool slightly before serving, and watch as everyone digs into this cheesy, flavorful delight.
Pro Tips for Best Results
As I experimented with this recipe, I found that using different kinds of cheese really changes the game! While I love classic cheddar, mixing in some pepper jack adds a delightful kick that some of my family members adore. You could even try mozzarella for a super gooey texture. I also found that adding in a spoonful of sour cream to the filling gives it a wonderful creaminess that enhances the overall richness of each bite.
Another tip is to make sure not to overcook the pasta when boiling. You want the shells to be firm enough to hold their shape when filled. I learned this the hard way when I ended up with some shells that ultimately fell apart during the cooking process. Finally, make sure to let them rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven. This helps the cheese set a bit so you can enjoy clean, perfect servings.
Last but not least, if you want to prepare ahead, you can assemble these shells a day in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge but be mindful that they might need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Like any recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for while making Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells. First, overstuffing the shells can lead to a gooey mess in your baking dish. I’ve been guilty of this, and it can be a real headache when you’re trying to serve a dish that’s more filling than pasta! Instead, aim for just enough filling to create a delicious bite without spilling out everywhere. (See the next page below to continue…)