One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s as effortless as it is flavorful, this One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender angel hair pasta cooked perfectly right in a creamy, garlicky sauce bursting with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes—all made in just one skillet. With every bite, you get a satisfying mix of richness, bright acidity, and just the right touch of spice, making this dish an ultimate weeknight winner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to create a sauce that’s creamy, vibrant, and packed with personality. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing texture and taste, making this pasta truly sing from the first forkful to the last.

• 3 tablespoons butter: Adds a luxurious richness and helps mellow the garlic’s bite.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant base that infuses the whole dish with warmth.
• 2 cups chicken stock or bone broth: The liquid backbone that cooks the pasta while lending depth and extra protein.
• 1/2 cup half and half or whole milk, room temperature: Creams up the sauce beautifully without overpowering other flavors.
• 1 8-ounce jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained: Brings an intense, tangy sweetness that’s the star of this recipe.
• 8 ounces angel hair pasta: Cooks quickly and soaks up all that savory sauce like a charm.
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Sprinkled at the end to add a salty, nutty finish.
• 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese (optional): Elevates creaminess for an indulgent, silky sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds herbal notes that complement the tomato perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper: Gives a subtle kick and layers of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all other tastes.
• Optional – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For those who love a little heat to brighten things up.

How to Make One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step releases all those irresistible garlicky aromas that will anchor your sauce.

Step 2: Add Stock, Tomatoes, and Seasonings

Next, pour in the chicken stock along with the drained sun-dried tomatoes and your seasonings: Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and if you like, red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and let the flavors mingle a bit before adding the dairy.

Step 3: Pour in the Half and Half and Bring to a Boil

Slowly pour in the half and half, stirring gently as you do. Increase the heat just enough to bring the mixture to a gentle boil—this step is critical for blending the creaminess with the tang of the tomatoes and savory broth.

Step 4: Add the Angel Hair Pasta

Carefully add the angel hair pasta in a single layer on top of the simmering liquid. Let it rest for 30 seconds until you can delicately push the strands down into the sauce without breaking them. This technique ensures even cooking and maximum sauce absorption.

Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente

Allow the pasta to cook completely submerged for about 5 minutes on medium-low heat. If using cream cheese, stir it in now, letting it melt into the sauce for a luxuriously creamy texture. Continue to cook until the pasta is perfectly al dente, tender yet with a slight bite.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Adjust Seasoning

Once the pasta is tender, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top, stirring gently to combine. Taste your creation and add more salt or pepper if needed. If the sauce has thickened too much or the pasta soaked up all the liquid, add a splash of chicken stock or half and half to loosen it up nicely.

How to Serve One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley brings a burst of color and herbaceousness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich sauce. For an extra touch, shaving a bit more Parmesan right before serving adds cheesy indulgence that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to add both texture and freshness. Garlic bread is a classic companion, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce lingering in the pan.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in rustic bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of cracked black pepper for a homey vibe. For a dinner party, plate it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to elevate the meal with added protein and make it feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta will continue to soak up sauce, so keep some extra cream or broth on hand to refresh it when reheating.

Freezing

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Rewarm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or half and half to loosen the sauce and avoid drying out. A microwave works too; just heat in short intervals, stirring in between to evenly warm the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for the One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is preferred for its quick cooking and delicate texture, you can substitute with other thin pastas like spaghetti or linguine. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they cook through in the liquid.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken stock or bone broth for vegetable broth to keep the flavor rich and satisfying while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly. The sun-dried tomatoes and cheese ensure plenty of depth.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free angel hair or any other gluten-free pasta you prefer. Since the pasta cooks in the liquid, be sure to check the cooking time carefully to avoid overcooking or undercooking your gluten-free choice.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes in oil?

You can use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes rehydrated in warm water, but you might need to add a bit of olive oil to the sauce for extra richness since they lack the oil-packed flavor.

How can I add more protein to this pasta?

Adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even canned beans stirred in at the end are great ways to boost protein content without compromising the creamy and tangy flavor profile of the dish.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta truly embodies the joy of cooking simple ingredients into something spectacular without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, comforting, and just bursting with flavor—a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to make it, enjoy it, and maybe even keep it as your next kitchen favorite.

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