
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:
- Cook the conchitas pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the beef and vegetable mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- 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.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- 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!