Low-Point Conchitas with Ground Beef: A Flavorful Mexican Classic

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz conchitas pasta (small shell pasta)
  • 1 lb extra lean ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the conchitas pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, spray a large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
  3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Simmer the beef and vegetable mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Add the cooked conchitas pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):

  • Calories: 300
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 24g

Weight Watchers Points (per serving):

  • Green Plan: 7 points
  • Blue Plan: 5 points
  • Purple Plan: 5 points

Enjoy this delicious and satisfying low-point conchitas with ground beef for a taste of classic Mexican comfort food!