Conchitas con Carne (Mexican Hamburger and Shells)

Conchitas con Carne is a classic Mexican comfort dish made with small pasta shells (“conchitas”) cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce with ground beef. It’s flavorful, filling, and super easy to make—perfect for a quick family meal.

Here’s a traditional recipe for Conchitas con Carne (Mexican Hamburger and Shells):

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🌮 Conchitas con Carne

Serves: 4–6
Time: 30–40 minutes

🧂 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 works great)

• 2 cups small pasta shells (conchitas)

• 2–3 Roma tomatoes (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)

• ¼ onion (white or yellow)

• 1 garlic clove

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for depth)

• 3–4 cups water or beef broth

• 1–2 tablespoons oil (for frying pasta)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 bouillon cube (beef or tomato-flavored, optional)

• Fresh cilantro or shredded cheese (optional, for garnish)

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🔪 Instructions:

1. Toast the Pasta:

   • In a large skillet or pot, heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.

   • Add the dry pasta shells and stir frequently until golden brown (like you would for fideo). This gives a nutty flavor—don’t skip!

2. Make the Sauce:

   • While pasta is toasting, blend tomatoes, onion, garlic, and about 1 cup of water or broth until smooth.

   • (Optional) Add a spoonful of tomato paste to the blender for richer flavor.

3. Cook the Meat:

   • In the same skillet or in a separate pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

   • Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.

   • Combine beef with the toasted pasta.

4. Simmer Together:

   • Pour the blended tomato sauce into the skillet with pasta and meat.

   • Add the remaining 2–3 cups of water or broth, enough to cover the pasta.

   • Add bouillon cube if using. Stir well.

5. Cook the Conchitas:

   • Bring everything to a simmer.

   • Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

   • Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Add more liquid if needed.

6. Serve:

   • Let rest a few minutes before serving.

   • Garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime if desired.

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🍽️ Tips & Variations:

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeño or chipotle to the sauce.

• Veggies: Throw in corn, peas, or diced carrots for extra nutrition.

• Cheesy: Top with queso fresco or shredded cheddar.

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Would you like a printable version or a variation (like vegetarian or slow-cooker)?