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Mexican Stuffed Shells Recipe

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as the shells will bake later. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  2. Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
  3. Season and Add Fillings: Add the taco seasoning, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until it melts into the beef mixture. This will make the filling creamy and cheesy, perfect for stuffing the shells.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the enchilada sauce, salsa, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Spread Sauce in Baking Dish: Pour half of this sauce mixture into the bottom of a large baking dish to create a flavorful base for the stuffed shells.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

  1. Fill the Shells: Using a spoon, stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the beef and cheese mixture.
  2. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish on top of the sauce, arranging them in a single layer.

Step 5: Top with Remaining Sauce and Cheese

  1. Pour Remaining Sauce Over Shells: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce mixture over the top of the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is well coated.
  2. Sprinkle with Cheese: Add an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top to create a bubbly, cheesy crust when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Shells

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish: Once out of the oven, garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños if desired.
  2. Serve: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side for extra creaminess.

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