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Cozy Sun-Dried Tomato Beef Pasta Skillet (Easy 30-Minute Meal)

cozy sun-dried tomato ground beef pasta skillet - featured image
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A quick and comforting pasta skillet with ground beef, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for cozy nights when you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (80g) sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
  • 8 oz (225g) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (240ml) low-sodium beef broth
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break apart with a wooden spoon. Let brown undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, then stir and cook until fully browned, about 6-8 minutes total.
  3. Transfer cooked beef to a plate using a slotted spoon. Leave about 1 tablespoon of rendered fat in the skillet.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for 1 minute to release their oils.
  6. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until darkened and fragrant.
  7. Pour in beef broth and reserved pasta water. Scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
  8. Return cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  9. Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and stir until fully incorporated and sauce is velvety.
  10. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan and stir until melted.
  11. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Reserve more pasta water than you think you need; it helps emulsify the sauce. Don’t rush the browning of the beef for maximum flavor. Toast the tomato paste to deepen its taste. Season in layers for best results. Let the dish rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: sun-dried tomato beef pasta, easy 30-minute meal, ground beef skillet, creamy pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/cozy-sun-dried-tomato-beef-pasta-skillet-easy-30-minute-meal/