Mexican Shells & Cheese

How to make Mexican Shells & Cheese

Ingredients:

1 bag (14 oz) small shell pasta

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

3 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tsp garlic powder

3 cubes Knorr Caldo con Sabor de Pollo(Chicken bouillon cubes)

6 cups of water

1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)

1/2 tsp salt (if needed)

1/2 cup Mexican blend shredded cheese

1/2 cup Queso fresco, crumbled

Directions:

To prepare this delicious chicken broth, dissolve 3 Knorr Chicken flavor Bouillon cubes in 6 cups boiling water. Set aside.

In a medium pot, heat oil on low-medium heat. Then add shells, garlic, and onion powder. Stir occasionally until shells are a golden brown or light brownish color.

When shells are browned, remove the pot from heat, add tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Place pot back on heat on medium-high until it comes to a boil.

Lower heat on the pot to low, cover, and simmer about 15-20 minutes or until pasta shells are soft.

Serve in bowls and top with cheese

Enjoy !!

Notes:

Ingredient Substitutions:

Vegetable Oil: You can substitute with olive oil or avocado oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
Chicken Bouillon Cubes: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the sodium content.
Tomato Sauce: You can use fresh tomatoes blended with a bit of water and seasoning as a substitute for canned tomato sauce.

Flavor Enhancements:

Spices: Add a pinch of cumin, paprika, or chili powder to enhance the Mexican flavors.
Herbs: Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top before serving can add a refreshing touch.

Cheese Variations:

Cheese Options: Swap the Mexican blend cheese with Monterey Jack or Colby for a different taste.
Additional Cheese: A sprinkle of Cotija cheese can add a nice salty tang.

Cooking Tips:

Browning the Pasta: Stir frequently while browning the pasta to prevent burning and ensure even color.
Simmering: Make sure to simmer on low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta and to let the flavors meld together.

Texture Adjustments:

Creamier Version: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving for a creamier texture.
Crunch: Add a handful of crushed tortilla chips on top for a crunchy contrast.

Vegetable Add-ins:

Vegetables: Consider adding diced bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach at the end for added greens.

Serving Suggestions:

Sides: Serve with a side of refried beans or a fresh green salad.
Garnishes: Top with fresh avocado slices, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Make-Ahead and Storage:

Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the point of simmering, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove and add cheese before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.

Healthier Options:

Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make the dish healthier.
Cheese: Reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat cheese to cut down on calories and fat.

Customization for Heat:

Spiciness: If you like it spicy, add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Mild Version: For a milder version, ensure the tomato sauce and cheese used are not spiced.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta shape, such as elbows or rotini.

However, cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta for doneness.

Can I use homemade chicken broth instead of bouillon cubes?

Yes, you can substitute homemade chicken broth for the bouillon cubes.

Use 6 cups of homemade broth and adjust the salt to taste.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable bouillon cubes instead of chicken and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, corn, or peas would be great additions to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.

What if I don’t have Queso fresco?

If you don’t have Queso fresco, you can substitute with feta cheese or omit it entirely, adding more of the Mexican blend shredded cheese if desired.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of simmering.

Let it cool, then refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove and add cheese before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when cooking the pasta for a spicier dish.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes.

Blanch and peel about 4-5 medium tomatoes, blend them into a sauce, and use in place of the canned tomato sauce.

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, olive oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.

It will add a slightly different flavor, but it will work just as well in the recipe.