Pasta shells with ground beef is a delightful dish that brings together the robust flavors of seasoned ground beef, aromatic spices, and tender pasta. This dish is not only comforting and filling but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Sazon Perfecta seasoning
- 2 cups medium-size pasta shells
- 1/4 cup oil
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons granulated Knorr chicken bouillon
- 4 tablespoons granulated Knorr tomato bouillon
- 3 serrano chiles, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
- A handful of chopped cilantro
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Onion powder, to taste
- 2 packets red Sazon seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by mincing the garlic clove, dicing the serrano chiles and onion, and chopping a handful of fresh cilantro. These steps will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 1/4 cup of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Season the beef with black pepper, Sazon Perfecta seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld.
- Add Vegetables: Once the ground beef is browned, add the diced onion and serrano chiles to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the chiles are softened. Add the can of Rotel and stir to combine, incorporating the tomatoes and chilies into the beef mixture.
- Incorporate Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in 4 cups of water, ensuring that the liquid covers the ingredients in the skillet. Add the granulated Knorr chicken bouillon, granulated Knorr tomato bouillon, and bay leaf. Stir to dissolve the bouillon and incorporate the seasonings into the mixture, creating a rich and flavorful base for the pasta.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the medium-size pasta shells to the boiling liquid. Stir well, ensuring that the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The pasta should be cooked to al dente, and the sauce should have thickened.
- Finish with Cilantro: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped cilantro. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor, brightening up the dish.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or bouillon to taste. This step ensures that the dish is perfectly seasoned to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the pasta shells with ground beef hot, garnished with additional chopped cilantro if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Spiciness: Adjust the number of serrano chiles based on your heat preference. For a milder dish, use fewer chiles or replace them with a milder pepper.
- Cheese: For a cheesy twist, stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese just before serving. The melted cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish. These additions can also add more color and texture.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of pasta.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Yes, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How can I reduce the sodium content? A: Use low-sodium bouillon and reduce the amount of added salt. Opt for fresh tomatoes instead of canned Rotel to further control sodium levels.
This pasta shells with ground beef recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of savory ground beef, spicy serrano chiles, and rich tomato and chicken bouillon creates a delicious and comforting meal. Enjoy this easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
