Contents
Introduction
Instant Pot Cheesy Taco Shells are a delicious and convenient dish that blends classic taco flavors with cheesy goodness, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as it brings together ground beef, spices, and pasta shells in a creamy and savory sauce. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
½ medium sweet onion, diced
1 small poblano pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 ½ teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
3 cups beef stock
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 cup mild salsa (homemade or store-bought)
12 ounces medium pasta shells
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1½ cups)
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Set a 6-quart Instant Pot® to the high sauté setting. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook the beef for about 3-5 minutes until it is browned, making sure to crumble it as it cooks. After browning, drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
To the browned beef, add ½ medium sweet onion (diced) and 1 small poblano pepper (diced). Cook while stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 ½ teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Stir these ingredients together and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Liquid and Pasta
Stir in 3 cups of beef stock, 1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce, 1 cup of mild salsa (either homemade or store-bought), and 12 ounces of medium pasta shells. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Select the manual setting on the Instant Pot®, adjust the pressure to high, and set the cooking time for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream
After the pressure has been released, stir in 6 ounces of shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (approximately 1½ cups) and ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir until the cheese has fully melted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Finally, add ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro leaves and mix well.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Instant Pot Cheesy Taco Shells immediately for a delicious meal.
Notes
Cooking Suggestions
For added flavor, consider incorporating diced tomatoes or black beans into the mixture.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Adjusting Spice Level
To modify the heat level, use a spicier salsa or add jalapeño peppers for extra kick.
Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef and use low-fat cheese and cream.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method where ingredients are cooked in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, ground beef is sautéed until browned, allowing it to develop rich flavors.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking involves using steam pressure to cook food more quickly than traditional methods. The Instant Pot cooks pasta shells rapidly, ensuring they are tender while absorbing the flavors of the ingredients.
Quick Release
Quick release is a method used to release steam quickly from a pressure cooker. This technique allows you to stop the cooking process immediately, preventing overcooking of the pasta shells in this recipe.
Melting Cheese
Melting cheese involves warming it gently until it’s soft and gooey. In this dish, shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream are stirred in after cooking, creating a creamy and cheesy texture.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the process of adding decorative elements to a dish, enhancing its appearance and taste. Chopped fresh cilantro is added just before serving, providing a burst of color and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
What can I serve with Cheesy Taco Shells?
These cheesy taco shells pair well with a side salad, tortilla chips, or guacamole for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Cheesy Taco Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of beef stock or cream to retain moisture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the Cheesy Taco Shells. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Cheesy Taco Shells recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the comforting elements of cheesy pasta with the bold tastes of taco seasoning. It’s a quick and easy dish that is perfect for busy weeknights, providing a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Chicken Alfredo Taco Shells
Combine the taco seasoning with a creamy Alfredo sauce instead of salsa for a rich and flavorful twist.
Vegetarian Taco Shells
Substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a hearty meatless version.
Spicy Chipotle Taco Shells
Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the mix for an extra kick of heat and a smoky flavor.
BBQ Chicken Taco Shells
Use shredded BBQ chicken instead of ground beef for a sweet and tangy alternative.
Mexican Street Corn Taco Shells
Incorporate roasted corn, lime juice, and cotija cheese for a fresh take inspired by street corn flavors.
