Pasta shells with ground beef

“`html

When it comes to comfort food with a twist, pasta shells with ground beef is a delightful dish that brings a touch of Mexico to your table. This recipe, affectionately known as “Conchitas,” is inspired by a neighbor’s culinary style and combines the heartiness of pasta with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that anyone can master!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this ground beef pasta recipe is perfect for you. Its rich and savory taste, combined with the slight heat from serrano peppers, makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the use of familiar ingredients makes it a comforting dish that feels like home.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Deep frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds of ground beef
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Black pepper, to taste
• Sazon perfecta seasoning
• 2 cups of medium-sized pasta shells
• 1/4 cup of oil
• 4 cups of water
• 2 tablespoons of granulated Knorr chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons of granulated Knorr tomato broth
• 3 diced serrano peppers
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 box of Rotel
• A handful of chopped coriander
• Garlic and onion powder, to taste
• 2 packages of red sazon
• 1 bay leaf

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with minced garlic, black pepper, and Sazon perfecta seasoning over medium heat.
2. Meanwhile, in a deep frying pan, heat 1/4 cup of oil and brown the pasta shells, similar to browning rice or Roni.
3. Once the beef is cooked, drain the fat and add the meat to the browned pasta shells.
4. Add 4 cups of water, granulated Knorr chicken broth, diced serrano peppers, granulated Knorr tomato broth, chopped onion, Rotel, coriander, garlic and onion powder, red sazon, and the bay leaf to the skillet.
5. Stir everything together, cover, and let it cook over medium-high heat until the pasta shells are al dente.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to brown the pasta shells well for added flavor and texture.
• Adjust the amount of serrano peppers to tailor the heat level to your preference.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicier kick, add more serrano peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Garnish with additional fresh coriander or a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While specific nutritional values may vary, this dish is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling meal. Adjust seasoning and portion sizes to suit your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta shape will work, but the shell shape holds the sauce well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

This pasta shells with ground beef recipe is a fantastic dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it becomes a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and any creative variations you come up with!

“`