Sopa de Conchas with Ground Beef
Sopa de Conchas with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful Mexican-style pasta soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
The toasted shell pasta adds a rich, nutty depth, while the seasoned ground beef and roasted garlic tomato sauce create a savory broth.
This easy, one-pot dish is great for busy weeknights and brings warmth to the table with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love Sopa de Conchas with Ground Beef because it’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make.
The toasted shells add a rich, nutty taste, while the seasoned ground beef and tomato-based broth create a savory, satisfying bite.
It’s a budget-friendly, one-pot dish that’s perfect for feeding a family, and the warm, nostalgic flavors make it a favorite for all ages.
Key Ingredients:
Ground Beef – Adds hearty, savory flavor and protein to the dish.
Small Shell Pasta (Conchas) – Toasted to enhance its rich, nutty taste.
Tomato Sauce (Hunt’s Roasted Garlic) – Gives the broth a deep, garlicky tomato flavor.
Chicken or Tomato Bouillon Powder – Boosts the umami taste and adds depth to the broth.
Water – Helps create a flavorful soup base that allows the pasta to cook to perfection.
Sopa de Conchas with Ground Beef
Ingredients:
1 pound small shell pasta (conchas)
1 pound ground beef
2 (8 oz) cans Hunts Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce
1 tablespoon chicken or tomato bouillon powder (adjust to taste)
6 cups water (or more as needed)
1 tablespoon oil (for toasting the pasta)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat.
Season with a little salt and pepper if desired.
Once fully cooked, drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
Toast the Pasta
In the same pot, add a tablespoon of oil and heat over medium heat.
Add the shell pasta and stir frequently until the shells are golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
Add Sauce and Simmer
Pour in the Hunts Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce.
Sprinkle in the bouillon powder and mix well.
Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
Pour in 6 cups of water, stir to combine, and bring to a boil.
Simmer Until Tender
Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is soft and has absorbed the flavors.
Stir occasionally and add more water if needed for a soupier consistency.
Taste and Serve
Adjust seasoning with more bouillon, salt, or pepper if needed.
Serve hot and enjoy with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime, if desired!
Notes:
Toasting the Pasta: Lightly toasting the shell pasta before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Draining the Beef: Removing excess grease after browning the ground beef keeps the soup from being overly oily.
Seasoning Adjustments: You can adjust the amount of bouillon to taste, adding more for a stronger flavor or using less for a milder broth.
Liquid Ratio: If you prefer a brothier soup, add more water; for a thicker consistency, reduce the liquid slightly.
Extra Additions: For more flavor, consider adding diced onions, minced garlic, or a pinch of cumin while browning the beef.
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1 bowl
Calories: ~350 kcal | Protein: ~18g | Carbohydrates: ~45g | Fat: ~12g | Saturated Fat: ~4g | Cholesterol: ~35mg | Fiber: ~3g | Sugar: ~5g | Sodium: ~900mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of conchas (shells)?
Yes! While conchas are traditional, you can use elbow macaroni, ditalini, or even orzo for a similar texture.
Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this soup less salty?
The bouillon can be quite salty, so you can use low-sodium broth or reduce the amount of bouillon powder.
You can also add extra water and adjust seasoning to taste.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but the pasta will absorb more liquid as it sits.
If making ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating, or add extra broth when reheating to adjust consistency.
What can I add to make this soup heartier?
You can add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrients.
Beans or even diced potatoes can also make it more filling.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Absolutely! Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a spoonful of chipotle in adobo to give it a spicy kick.
You can also use a spicier variety of tomato sauce.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
To keep the shells from overcooking, make sure to toast them well before adding liquid.
Also, simmer gently and avoid overcooking—about 15-20 minutes should be enough.
Should I drain the grease from the ground beef?
Yes, it’s best to drain excess grease after browning the meat to avoid an oily soup.
However, leaving a little fat can add extra flavor.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?
Yes! Blend 2-3 roasted Roma tomatoes with garlic and onion for a homemade version.
If needed, strain for a smoother consistency.
What type of broth works best for this recipe?
Chicken broth is traditional, but beef broth adds extra depth of flavor.
If using tomato bouillon, adjust the salt level accordingly.
How can I make this a one-pot meal?
After browning the beef, toast the pasta in the same pot.
Then, add the tomato sauce, seasonings, and water directly—fewer dishes and more flavor!