🍲 Conchitas con Carne (Mexican Hamburger and Shells)

A simple, comforting one-pot Mexican pasta dish made with ground beef, tender shells, and a rich tomato broth.

Conchitas con Carne is a nostalgic, home-style meal many families grew up enjoying. It comes together in one pot with affordable ingredients and delivers warm, comforting flavor every time. The pasta shells absorb a seasoned tomato broth while the ground beef adds richness, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe is mild, family-friendly, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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🧾 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 cups small pasta shells (conchitas)

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder (optional for mild heat)

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 4 cups beef or chicken broth

• Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges

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🍳 Instructions

1. Toast the Pasta

In a large pot, heat the oil.
Add the shells and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
This step adds flavor and helps them stay firm.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

Push toasted shells to the side.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Add onion and garlic; cook 3–4 minutes more.

3. Season

Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Add Tomato Sauce & Broth

Pour in the tomato sauce and broth.
Mix well so the pasta is fully submerged.

5. Simmer

Cover and cook 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:
✔ shells are tender
✔ broth has thickened
✔ flavors have blended

6. Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning.
Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime if you like.

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⭐ Tips for Best Flavor

• Toasting the pasta first enhances texture and taste.

• Add a jalapeño with the onion for a spicier version.

• Use chicken broth for a lighter flavor, beef broth for richer.

• Great as leftovers — it thickens even more the next day.