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Crunchy Taco Stuffed Shells in the Air Fryer – Easy and Delicious!

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, mouth-watering meal that combines the best flavours of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of an air fryer, look no further than Crunchy Taco Stuffed Shells. This imaginative dish takes classic stuffed pasta and transforms it into a zesty taco experience, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, these stuffed shells are both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 large pasta shells
• 500g lean mince beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1tsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 taco seasoning packet (or homemade)
• 100g black beans, rinsed and drained
• 100g sweetcorn (canned or frozen)
• 150g cream cheese, softened
• 150g cheddar cheese, grated
• 50g tortilla chips, crushed (for topping)
• Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream and salsa (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells
   Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Cook the Filling
   Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add the mince beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir well, allowing it to coat the meat evenly. Mix in the black beans and sweetcorn, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Finally, remove the pan from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until combined.

3. Stuff the Shells
   Carefully spoon the taco filling into each pasta shell. Be generous, as a well-stuffed shell is the best kind! Once filled, place the stuffed shells in a single layer in your air fryer basket.

4. Air Fry the Shells
   Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 3 minutes. Once ready, sprinkle a portion of the grated cheddar cheese over the shells and then top each with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Cook the stuffed shells in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and the cheese is bubbling.

5. Garnish and Serve
   Once cooked, carefully remove the shells from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and serve with dollops of sour cream and salsa on the side.

Tips for Success

• Customise Your Filling: Feel free to tailor the sweetcorn and black beans to your taste; add diced peppers or even jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a more adventurous flavour.
• Cooking in Batches: If you have a smaller air fryer, consider cooking the shells in batches to ensure they are not overcrowded, allowing for an even crisp.

Conclusion

Crunchy Taco Stuffed Shells in the air fryer are a delightful fusion of two beloved cuisines that come together in a fun and easy dish. With minimal prep and cooking time, these stuffed shells are perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal. The crispy texture combined with the rich, cheesy filling is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Give this recipe a try, and savour the explosive flavours that make dinner something to look forward to!