Possibly the best version of this meal I've ever created, it's scrumptious

Taco stuffed shells with queso bring together the best of two beloved dishes—tacos and pasta. These hearty shells are perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, as they offer a cozy, comforting meal that everyone will love. This dish is a fusion of Mexican flavors and Italian comfort, making it a unique and fun option for your dinner table. The creamy queso topping adds a touch of indulgence that makes these shells irresistible.

Taco stuffed shells are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with fresh sides like a green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Corn on the cob or a scoop of Mexican rice would also complement the flavors nicely. For a fun twist, you could serve them with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole to keep with the taco theme.

Servings: 6

20 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup salsa
Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.

5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Remove from heat.

6. Spread about 1/2 cup of the queso dip in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

7. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.

8. Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining queso dip evenly over the top.

9. Spoon the salsa over the queso-covered shells.

10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the queso is bubbly and slightly golden.

12. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro, if desired, before serving.

For a lighter version, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you have picky eaters, consider adding a layer of refried beans to the bottom of the baking dish before adding the shells. This adds extra protein and creaminess that kids often love. To make it spicier, add some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicier salsa. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans and corn.