Mexican Shells & Cheese Recipe

This Mexican Shells & Cheese is a flavorful and comforting dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side to any meal. The creamy cheese, the subtle seasoning from the chicken bouillon, and the light golden pasta combine to make a savory treat that’s sure to please everyone.

Ingredients:

• 14 oz small shell pasta – A typical bag of pasta will work well.
• 15 oz tomato sauce – Any brand of plain tomato sauce.
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil – To sauté the pasta.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – For seasoning.
• 3 cubes Knorr Caldo con Sabor de Pollo (Chicken bouillon cubes) – To create a flavorful broth.
• 6 cups water – To dissolve the bouillon cubes.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder – Optional for additional flavor.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Adjust based on taste preference.
• 1/2 cup Mexican blend shredded cheese – For a creamy and melty topping.
• 1/2 cup Queso fresco, crumbled – Adds a fresh and mild flavor.

Directions:

Prepare the Broth:

1. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
2. Once the water is boiling, dissolve the 3 chicken bouillon cubes to create a rich and flavorful chicken broth. Set this broth aside.

Sauté the Pasta:

1. In a medium pot, heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil over low to medium heat.
2. Add the shell pasta, along with 1 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp onion powder (if using). Stir the pasta occasionally, allowing it to brown lightly for a few minutes. The pasta should turn golden or slightly brown.

Combine and Boil:

1. Once the pasta is lightly browned, remove the pot from the heat and carefully stir in the 15 oz tomato sauce and the prepared chicken broth.
2. Return the pot to the stove, increase the heat to medium-high, and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Pasta:

1. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite.

Add Cheese and Serve:

1. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, turn off the heat. Serve the hot shells in bowls.
2. Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of Mexican blend shredded cheese and crumbled Queso fresco. The heat from the pasta will help melt the cheese slightly, making it gooey and delicious.

Enjoy your meal!

This Mexican Shells & Cheese dish is perfect for a satisfying and quick meal that everyone will enjoy, packed with bold flavors and creamy cheese. You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!