MEXICAN STUFFED SHELLS

### Instructions:

**1. Cook the Pasta Shells:**
Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure not to overcook them—al dente is ideal since the shells will cook more in the oven. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool slightly. If you want to prevent the shells from sticking together, you can drizzle them lightly with olive oil.

**2. Prepare the Beef Filling:**
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat. Next, stir in the taco seasoning and salsa, mixing well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.

**3. Make the Cheese Filling:**
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and well-mixed. If you’re using black beans, gently fold them into the cheese mixture for added texture and flavor.

**4. Stuff the Shells:**
Once the beef mixture and cheese filling are ready, it’s time to stuff the shells. Take each cooked shell and carefully fill it with a spoonful of the beef mixture, followed by a spoonful of the cheese mixture. Place each stuffed shell in a 9×13-inch baking dish, fitting them snugly together.

**5. Prepare the Sauce:**
In a small bowl, combine the enchilada sauce and salsa (if using). Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is covered.

**6. Bake the Mexican Stuffed Shells:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the top of the stuffed shells with additional shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

**7. Garnish and Serve:**
Once the shells are out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the Mexican stuffed shells hot, alongside a fresh side salad, guacamole, or even some warm tortillas for a complete meal.

### Why You’ll Love Mexican Stuffed Shells:
– **Flavor Packed**: The combination of taco seasoning, salsa, and creamy cheese creates a bold, comforting flavor that everyone will enjoy.
– **Easy to Make**: With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade meal that doesn’t take all day to prepare.
– **Customizable**: Feel free to add or swap ingredients—use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version, add some chopped peppers or jalapeños for extra spice, or top with sour cream and guacamole for even more flavor.
– **Hearty & Filling**: These stuffed shells are incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for feeding a crowd or ensuring everyone gets a hearty portion.

### Tips for the Best Mexican Stuffed Shells:
– **Don’t Overstuff the Shells**: While it can be tempting to stuff them as much as possible, overstuffing can cause the shells to break. Just a generous scoop of filling in each shell will do!
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes it even easier to have a hot meal on the table without much effort.
– **Vegetarian Version**: If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or use meatless crumbles.

### Conclusion:
Mexican Stuffed Shells are a flavorful and fun twist on a classic Italian dish, combining all the best elements of Mexican comfort food. With a rich beef filling, a creamy cheese center, and a zesty sauce, these stuffed shells are bound to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving something hearty and delicious, this recipe is a winner every time!