Conchitas Con Carne 🌮🍖🍝
A Cozy Mexican Classic That Feeds the Soul
If you grew up in a Mexican kitchen — or even just visited one at dinnertime — chances are you’ve tasted the warm, comforting embrace of Conchitas Con Carne. This beloved dish brings together tender pasta shells and seasoned ground beef in a rich, tomato-based sauce, creating a satisfying one-pot meal that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.
Think of it as a Mexican take on American goulash, but with the deep flavors of cumin, chili powder, and bell peppers that make it uniquely ours. It’s budget-friendly, quick to make, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sirloin
- 2 cups uncooked shell pasta
- 4 oz tomato sauce
- 1/4 small onion, chopped
- 1/4 bell pepper, sliced
- 4-5 cups water
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, cook the ground sirloin over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess fat, then return the beef to the pot.
2. Add Shells and Fry:
- Stir in the uncooked shell pasta with the beef.
- Let the shells toast slightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. (This adds a light nutty flavor and helps them keep texture.)
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
- Mix in the chopped onion, sliced bell pepper, and all the seasonings:
cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (optional), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. - Add the tomato sauce and stir everything to combine well.
4. Add Water and Simmer:
- Crumble the beef bouillon cube into small pieces and stir it into the mixture.
- Pour in 4-5 cups of water, ensuring the shells are fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cover and Cook:
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the shells are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the Conchitas Con Carne into bowls and serve hot.
- Pair with warm tortillas, fresh salad, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for a heartier meal.
Why We Love Conchitas Con Carne ❤️
This dish is everything we want in a comforting, home-cooked meal: hearty, flavorful, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare. It’s also endlessly adaptable — add beans, corn, or even diced zucchini to sneak in extra veggies, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or just craving something warm and satisfying, Conchitas Con Carne is the answer.
¡Buen provecho! 🌮🍲