Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta shells with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 2 cups Water
- Red Sazon and/or Sazon Perfecta, for seasoning (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- Black Pepper, to taste
- 1 can Rotel Tomatoes
- 8 oz Uncooked Pasta Shells
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Tomato Broth
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Chicken Broth
- 1-2 Minced Serrano Chili Peppers (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 Yellow Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic Powder, to taste
- Onion Powder, to taste
- 1 Bay Leaf
- Chopped Fresh Parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks until browned and no longer pink.
- Season the Beef: Season the beef with Red Sazon, Sazon Perfecta, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Tomatoes
- Saute Onion and Peppers: Add chopped yellow onion and minced serrano chili peppers to the skillet with the ground beef. Saute until the onion becomes translucent and peppers soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add Rotel Tomatoes: Pour in the can of Rotel tomatoes (including the juices) into the skillet. Stir to combine with the beef mixture.
Step 3: Cook Pasta Shells
- Boil Water: In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add Pasta Shells: Add the uncooked pasta shells to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the ground beef and tomato mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Season with Broths and Spices: Sprinkle granulated tomato broth, granulated chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and add a bay leaf to the skillet. Stir to incorporate all ingredients.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the pasta and beef mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the skillet. Garnish the Pasta Shells with Ground Beef with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately while hot. Optionally, sprinkle with additional black pepper or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cook’s Tips
- Customize Heat: Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of serrano chili peppers.
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. Adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. Adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use different pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti if you prefer. Adjust cooking times based on the pasta type you choose.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Pasta Shells with Ground Beef with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its hearty ingredients and robust flavors. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal!
