Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells: 20-Minute Comfort Dish

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Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells are a delightful fusion of classic Mexican flavors and comforting pasta. This dish combines oversized pasta shells filled with a savory ground beef mixture, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese. It’s an easy recipe that transforms any weeknight dinner into a fiesta, proving that comfort food can also be quick and simple. In just 20 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of baking, you’ll serve a wonderfully cheesy dish that will have your family asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells

There are countless reasons to adore this Mexican pasta shells recipe. First, it’s incredibly quick; you can prepare this meal in just 20 minutes! Second, it’s versatile, allowing for variations like vegetarian enchilada stuffed shells or enchilada pasta shells with beef. Third, it’s a hit at family gatherings, making it a family-friendly enchilada pasta shell meal. Additionally, you can easily modify it to suit different diets, such as gluten-free. The combination of flavors—spicy, cheesy, and savory—makes it a crowd-pleaser. Lastly, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making dinner time feel special.

Ingredients for Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells

Gather these items:

20 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup enchilada sauce
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Cook pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain.
Step 3: Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
Step 4: Add onions, bell peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables soften.
Step 5: Remove from heat and mix in half the cheese and cilantro.
Step 6: Stuff cooked pasta shells with the beef mixture.
Step 7: Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and pour enchilada sauce over them.
Step 8: Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Step 9: Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese melts and bubbles.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
Don’t overcook your pasta; they should be slightly firm.
If you want a vegetarian option, swap the beef for black beans or lentils.
Experiment with different spices for a unique flavor twist.

Best Ways to Serve Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells

There are many delicious ways to enjoy your easy enchilada pasta shell dish. Pair it with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with sour cream or guacamole to add some creamy richness. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños on top before serving. This dish is also perfect for meal prep—simply store leftovers in airtight containers.

How to Store and Reheat Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells

For leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method ensures that the cheese remains bubbly and delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions About Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells

What are enchilada stuffed shells?

Enchilada stuffed shells are jumbo pasta shells filled with a mixture of seasoned meat, cheese, and vegetables, then baked in enchilada sauce. They’re a hearty and satisfying dish!

Can I make Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente and don’t overstuff the shells, as they can burst while baking. Also, be mindful of the baking time to keep the cheese from burning.

Variations of Enchilada Stuffed Pasta Shells You Can Try

You can try several variations to keep things exciting. Consider making spicy enchilada stuffed pasta by adding extra chili powder or jalapeños to the filling. For a creamy version, mix in some cream cheese. You can also create vegetarian enchilada stuffed shells by substituting the beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Each variation offers a different taste and experience, ensuring you never get bored with this fantastic dish!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Pesto Spinach Gnocchi or Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake. If you’re looking for a comforting dessert, try Pumpkin Cookies!