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Enjoy a clever twist on taco night by filling crunchy shells with creamy linguine tossed in Alfredo sauce, grilled chicken, Rotel tomatoes, and plenty of melted mozzarella. Cheesy Blasted Stand N Stuff taco shells cradle the flavorful pasta and juicy chicken, baked until bubbly and golden. Quick to prepare and irresistibly satisfying, this dish brings together Italian inspired comfort and taco night fun in one bite. Serve straight from the oven and enjoy a fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness with every mouthful.
I tried these when I was out of tortillas and now my family begs for Taco Tuesday with a creamy twist. The combination of the cheesy shell and saucy noodles just hits the spot every time.
Ingredients
- Linguine pasta: Adds the perfect bite and holds the creamy sauce well. Use a good brand for best texture
- Alfredo sauce: Brings everything together and creates rich creaminess. Choose a quality jarred sauce for flavor
- Rotel: Gives a kick of tomato and green chile that brightens each bite. Go for the original or mild depending on spice preference
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to balance and wake up the flavors
- Garlic powder: Offers depth and makes everything more savory. A fresh jar or a favorite brand makes a difference
- Shredded mozzarella: Melts perfectly in the sauce and atop the tacos. Freshly shred for best stretch and flavor
- Cooked chicken: Hearty protein. Grill beforehand for smoky flavor or use rotisserie for speed
- Cheesy Blasted Stand N Stuff taco shells: Hold everything with crunch and cheddar flavor. Inspect for cracks before filling
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the linguine. Stir well to prevent sticking. Cook until just shy of al dente for the perfect texture then drain and set aside
- Prepare the Alfredo Base:
- Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and pour in the Alfredo sauce. Stir until it starts to simmer softly so the flavors blend
- Add Rotel and Seasonings:
- Mix the drained Rotel thoroughly into the sauce. Blend in the salt pepper and garlic powder. Stir constantly to avoid any scorching and to marry the flavors
- Incorporate the Pasta:
- Add the drained linguine to the sauce. Toss thoroughly making sure every strand is coated in creamy goodness
- Melt Cheese and Add Chicken:
- Scatter in one cup of the shredded mozzarella and all of the cooked chicken. Stir just until the cheese melts and chicken is evenly distributed. This step creates a gooey base that clings to the noodles
- Fill Taco Shells:
- Arrange the taco shells standing up in a greased baking dish. Scoop generous portions of the saucy pasta mixture into each shell. Fill all the way to the top for hearty tacos
- Add Topping Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the filled tacos for a bubbling cheesy crown
- Bake to Finish:
- Transfer the dish to a preheated 400 degree oven. Bake for around ten minutes until the cheese bubbles and edges crisp
- Serve:
- Let the tacos cool just a minute or two before serving. Grab them like classic tacos and enjoy every creamy cheesy bite
What truly sticks out is the creamy Alfredo and how it works with the Rotel for a bright but mellow heat. My kids always laugh about the first night I made these and fought over the last crunchy cheesy shell.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. The shells soften a bit but still taste delicious. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer to bring back some crunch. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the shell texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap linguine for penne or spaghetti if needed. Rotisserie chicken speeds things up and works great. Monterey Jack or a pizza blend cheese also melts well. You can use homemade Alfredo sauce if you want even more flavor. Spinach or roasted bell peppers mix in beautifully for some veggie power.
Serving Suggestions
Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Try a drizzle of extra garlic Alfredo sauce or a few red pepper flakes on top. A green salad or roasted broccoli rounds out the meal. If serving for guests offer extra Rotel or salsa for those who love heat.
This creamy pasta taco mashup is an easy family friendly dinner that gets everyone excited for Taco Tuesday. It reheats well and is simple to customize.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use a different pasta instead of linguine?
Yes, spaghetti or fettuccine work well for similar texture. Short pasta like penne can be used but may alter the overall mouthfeel.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the tacos just before baking to keep the shells crisp.
- → How can I enhance the flavor of the filling?
Adding fresh herbs such as basil or parsley and sprinkling parmesan cheese along with mozzarella adds depth. Sautéed onions or bell peppers also work well.
- → Are there alternatives to Rotel tomatoes?
If Rotel is unavailable, mix diced tomatoes with green chilies, or use plain diced tomatoes with chili flakes or jalapeño for a similar kick.
- → Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, shredded rotisserie chicken blends perfectly with the creamy sauce and speeds up preparation.