Ingredients:
- 🍝 2 cups conchitas pasta (small shell pasta)
- 🥩 1 lb ground beef
- 🧅 1 small onion, finely diced
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍅 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 🌶️ 1 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 🌿 1/2 tsp cumin
- 🌿 1/2 tsp oregano
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🌶️ 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 🍲 2 1/2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 🧈 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 🌿 Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
1️⃣ Toast the Pasta:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the conchitas pasta and stir frequently until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the pasta from the skillet and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef:
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
3️⃣ Add Aromatics:
- Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce:
- Add the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5️⃣ Add Broth and Pasta:
- Return the toasted conchitas to the skillet. Pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring to combine.
6️⃣ Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
7️⃣ Garnish & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Pair with a side of beans, rice, or warm tortillas for a complete meal! 🍴
