This creamy, flavorful sun-dried tomato pasta is the ultimate quick and satisfying meal. Made in just one pan with angel hair pasta, garlic, and a luscious sun-dried tomato sauce, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Rich and Creamy: The sun-dried tomato sauce is decadent and full of flavor.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins like chicken, shrimp, or veggies.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
- Heat the olive oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Add the angel hair pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
- Lighter Version: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot chili oil.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese.
3. What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta frequently while it cooks in the sauce to keep it from clumping together.
4. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes not packed in oil?
Yes, rehydrate them in warm water for 10-15 minutes, then chop and use as directed.
5. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Let it simmer for a few extra minutes, or stir in a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water.
6. Can I add wine to the sauce?
Absolutely! Replace 1/4 cup of the broth with white wine for added depth of flavor.
7. How do I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cream, vegetable broth, and a vegan Parmesan substitute.
8. What can I serve with this pasta?
Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The sauce can be prepared in advance and reheated, but the pasta is best cooked fresh to maintain its texture.
10. How can I adjust the saltiness of the dish?
Taste the sauce before adding salt, as Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes can be quite salty on their own.
Conclusion
One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s quick to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting dinner, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious meal made entirely in one pan!
Print
One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is the ultimate quick and delicious weeknight meal! Ready in just 15 minutes, it features angel hair pasta, garlic, and a rich, flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce—all made in one pan for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
Produce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, packed in oil)
Dairy:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids:
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
Oils & Vinegars:
- 2 tbsp olive oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil from the sun-dried tomato jar. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute. Add the broth, water, salt, and black pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the angel hair pasta to the pan, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Stir occasionally and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to coat the pasta, then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, if desired.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and clings to the pasta.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a splash of pasta water or broth if it becomes too thick.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
