Pasta Shells with Ground Beef: A Comfort Food Classic with a Kick

 Irresistible Pasta Shells with Ground Beef: A Comfort Food Classic with a Kick

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and soul-warming dinner that brings everyone to the table fast? This Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe is your next go-to weeknight hero. Loaded with juicy ground beef, tender pasta shells, a bold blend of spices, and a fiery kick from serrano chiles, this dish delivers mouthwatering flavor in every bite.

Inspired by Latin-American kitchen staples, this hearty one-pot meal blends the convenience of a classic pasta dinner with the deep umami of Knorr bouillon, the zest of Rotel tomatoes, and the vibrant brightness of fresh cilantro. It’s comfort food with character — fast, filling, and impossible to resist.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ One-pot for easy cleanup

✅ Ready in under 45 minutes

✅ Budget-friendly and pantry staple-based

✅ Bold and zesty flavor with a customizable spice level

✅ Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining

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Ingredients & Their Roles

Each ingredient in this dish plays a unique part in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma:

1.5 lbs Ground Beef – The hearty base, offering richness and protein. Opt for 80/20 for maximum flavor.

1 Clove Garlic (medium, minced) – Adds a subtle depth and earthy fragrance.

Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances and sharpens the overall flavor.

Sazón Perfecta Seasoning (to taste) – A Latin spice blend that brings warmth and complexity.

2 Cups Medium Pasta Shells (dry) – Their cup-like shape holds the sauce beautifully.

¼ Cup Oil – Helps brown the meat and toast the pasta shells for added nutty flavor.

4 Cups Water – The cooking liquid that transforms into a rich, flavorful broth.

2 Tbsp Knorr Chicken Bouillon (granulated) – Adds savory depth and umami.

4 Tbsp Knorr Tomato Bouillon (granulated) – Gives a tomato-rich base with a slightly sweet tang.

3 Serrano Chiles (diced) – For a bold, spicy edge. Adjust to taste.

½ Onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and a mild crunch.

1 Can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) – Adds acidity and texture with a Tex-Mex flair.

1 Handful Cilantro (chopped) – For brightness and freshness.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (to taste) – Boosts the flavor intensity and roundness.

1 Bay Leaf (optional but recommended) – Adds subtle herbal depth.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain the excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add the minced garlic, black pepper, and Sazón Perfecta seasoning to the cooked beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Pasta Shells

Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the remaining oil. Toss in the pasta shells and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown. This adds a nutty undertone to your dish.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in 4 cups of water, then stir in the chicken bouillon, tomato bouillon, diced serrano chiles, chopped onion, and the entire can of Rotel (including juices). Add garlic powder, onion powder, a bay leaf, and chopped cilantro.

Step 5: Simmer Until Al Dente

Stir everything together thoroughly, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-high. Cover the skillet and let cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta shells are al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed into a savory, tomato-rich sauce.

Step 6: Final Touch & Serve

Once the pasta is tender, remove from heat. Discard the bay leaf (if used). Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice if needed.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

🔥 Control the heat by adjusting the number of serrano chiles. For a milder version, use only 1 or substitute with jalapeños.

🌿 Add more cilantro just before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

🍅 Can’t find Knorr bouillon? Use low-sodium broth + tomato paste as a substitute.

⏱️ Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is perfect for holding the sauce and avoiding mushiness.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

Warm tortillas or garlic bread to mop up the sauce

A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette for balance

Avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to cool the heat

A sprinkle of cotija cheese or shredded cheddar for added richness

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe is a flavor powerhouse that’s both accessible and deeply satisfying. It’s not just pasta with meat — it’s a fusion of Latin-inspired spices, bold aromatics, and pantry-staple ingredients that come together in one incredible, unforgettable meal.

Whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving something warm and filling, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort.

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Final Thoughts: Simple, Spicy, and Absolutely Delicious

You don’t need to be a chef to create something extraordinary. With just one skillet and a handful of bold ingredients, this Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe proves that comfort food can be exciting and effortless. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a weeknight favorite — and maybe even your new signature dish.

Try it tonight — and taste why this dish is winning hearts, one spicy shell at a time.

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