Save to Pinterest A bold fusion of Italian comfort and Tex-Mex flavor: jumbo pasta shells loaded with spiced beef and black beans, drenched in nacho cheese sauce, and finished with crushed Doritos for a crunchy, indulgent twist.
I first made these Tex-Mex taco stuffed shells for a family game night, and they disappeared incredibly fast. Everyone loved the cheesy sauce and crispy topping, and it has become a go-to for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells: 18–20 shells, boiled until just al dente
- Ground beef: 400 g (14 oz)
- Small onion: Chopped
- Taco seasoning: 1 packet or 2 tbsp homemade blend
- Cooked black beans: 150 g (1 cup)
- Tomato sauce: 100 ml (⅓ cup)
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 250 ml (1 cup)
- Shredded cheddar or nacho cheese blend: 150 g (1½ cups)
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Salt: To taste
- Crushed Doritos: Handful
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped (optional)
- Sliced jalapeños: Optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells:
- Boil in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a skillet, sauté onion in a bit of oil. Add ground beef and taco seasoning; cook until browned. Stir in black beans and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Make the nacho cheese sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add cheese, paprika, and salt. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Assemble the dish:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Fill each shell with beef mixture and place in a baking dish. Pour nacho cheese sauce evenly over the shells.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle crushed Doritos, and bake 5 more minutes.
- Serve:
- Garnish with cilantro and jalapeños if desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids helped crush the Doritos on top, laughing as they made a crunchy mess in the kitchen. These shells always bring us together for a fun, easy dinner night.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, saucepan, baking dish
Allergen Information
Contains: gluten (pasta, flour), dairy (cheese, milk, butter), corn (Doritos)
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~630, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 48 g, Protein: 34 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest These Tex-Mex stuffed shells shine at parties. Serve hot and watch them disappear!
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the shells gluten-free?
Substitute jumbo gluten-free pasta shells and use gluten-free corn chips instead of Doritos for a safe option.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything in advance and bake just before serving for best flavor and texture.
- → What can I use instead of beef?
Try ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- → How do I add extra heat?
Use spicy cheese, pepper jack, or include diced jalapeños in the filling for more kick.
- → Are there recommended toppings?
Add fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or avocado for fresh flavor and color before serving.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve with Mexican rice, a crisp salad, or black bean salsa to complete the meal.