Go Back
A steaming bowl of delicious Sopa De Conchas, a traditional Mexican pasta soup with seashell-shaped pasta, is presented as a featured image.

Easy Sopa de Conchas Recipe

Sopa de Conchas is a comforting Mexican noodle soup that's easy to make and full of flavor. This recipe focuses on toasting the pasta, using fresh tomatoes, and a quality broth to achieve an authentic and delicious result. Garnish with your favorite toppings like queso fresco, cilantro, and avocado for the perfect bowl.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup concha pasta small shell pasta
  • 1/2 white onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, roughly chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional toppings: Queso fresco
  • Optional toppings: Cilantro
  • Optional toppings: Avocado
  • Optional toppings: Lime wedges

Equipment

  • Medium pot or Dutch oven
  • Blender or food processor
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the concha pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until the pasta is golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. In a blender or food processor, blend the chopped tomatoes until smooth.
  6. Pour the blended tomatoes into the pot with the pasta, onion, and garlic.
  7. Add the chicken broth, chicken bouillon (if using), salt, and pepper.
  8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
  9. Ladle the sopa de conchas into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as queso fresco, cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges.

Notes

For the best flavor, toast the pasta until golden brown and fragrant. Use fresh, roasted tomatoes if possible, or good quality canned tomatoes as a substitute. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and omit the chicken bouillon. You can add a pinch of chili powder or a diced jalapeno for a touch of spice.