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Conchitas Con Carne Recipe (Mexican Shell Pasta with Ground Beef)

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This Conchitas Con Carne is a classic Mexican comfort food made with toasted shell pasta (conchitas), seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and a flavorful broth. It’s a simple, budget-friendly meal that’s loved by families and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Conchitas Con Carne

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 2 cups small shell pasta (conchitas)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 medium white onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 Roma tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional)
  • 1 carrot, diced (optional)
  • ½ cup corn kernels (optional)

Seasonings

  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Queso fresco
  • Shredded cheese
  • Diced avocado
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Hot sauce

Instructions

1. Toast the Conchitas

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add shell pasta and toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown.
  3. Remove pasta and set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

  1. In the same pot, add ground beef.
  2. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Make the Tomato Broth

  1. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
  2. Stir in tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook for 2–3 minutes to develop the flavors.
  4. Add broth and bay leaf.

4. Finish the Conchitas

  1. Return toasted pasta to the pot.
  2. Add potatoes, carrots, or corn if using.
  3. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Cook for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender and the broth becomes slightly thickened.
  5. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Conchitas Con Carne with:

  • Warm corn tortillas
  • Mexican rice
  • Refried beans
  • Avocado slices
  • Queso fresco
  • Salsa verde
  • Fresh lime juice

Tips for the Best Conchitas Con Carne

  • Toasting the pasta gives it a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Use fresh tomatoes blended with garlic and onion for a more traditional taste.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta — conchitas should stay tender but not mushy.
  • Add extra broth if you prefer a soupier version.
  • For a richer flavor, simmer the beef with the spices before adding the broth.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of broth because the pasta absorbs liquid as it sits.

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Conchitas Con Carne Recipe (Mexican Shell Pasta with Ground Beef)

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