Pasta shells with ground beef
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure where Italian comfort food meets a Mexican twist! This pasta shells with ground beef recipe is not only delicious but incredibly easy to make. I first learned it from a friend who was inspired by his Mexican neighbor’s recipe, affectionately known as Conchitas. The name Conchitas comes from the pasta’s shell-like shape and offers a unique take on traditional goulash with a distinct Mexican flair.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with spices that will excite your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Deep skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef
- 1 garlic clove
- Black pepper
- Sazon perfecta seasoning
- 2 cups of medium-size pasta shells
- 1/4 cup of oil
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of granulated Knorr chicken bouillon
- 4 tablespoons of granulated Knorr tomato bouillon
- 3 diced serrano chiles
- Half of an onion
- 1 can of Rotel
- A handful of chopped cilantro
- Garlic and onion powder to taste
- 2 packets of red Sazon
- 1 bay leaf
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet with chopped garlic, a pinch of black pepper, and Sazon perfecta seasoning.
- While the meat cooks, in a separate deep skillet, brown the pasta shells in 1/4 cup of oil, similar to how you would brown rice-a-Roni.
- Drain the grease from the ground beef and add the meat to the skillet with the pasta shells.
- Add 4 cups of water, 2 tablespoons of granulated Knorr chicken bouillon, 3 diced serrano chiles, 4 tablespoons of granulated Knorr tomato bouillon, half a chopped onion, a can of Rotel, a handful of chopped cilantro, 2 packets of red Sazon, one bay leaf, and garlic and onion powder to taste.
- Stir everything together and cover the skillet. Cook on medium-high heat until the pasta shells are al dente. Serve and enjoy this flavorful dish!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to brown the pasta shells evenly to enhance their flavor.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference before serving.
- Be cautious with the serrano chiles if you prefer a milder dish.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture and color. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact values may vary, this dish is a great source of protein and contains essential vitamins from the added vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish in advance?
You can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve. It reheats well, making it a convenient meal prep option.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I serve with this dish?
This recipe pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful pasta shells with ground beef recipe as much as we do. It’s a warm, comforting meal with a spicy kick that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!