One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta – just saying those words makes my heart flutter with excitement! You know that feeling when you’re staring into your pantry at 6 PM, wondering how to transform basic ingredients into something that feels like a warm hug? That’s exactly how this recipe came to life in my kitchen.
I’m Emeli, and as someone who’s spent years perfecting simple yet extraordinary dishes, I can promise you this: this one-pan sun-dried tomato pasta will become your new weeknight hero. The silky sauce, the burst of Mediterranean flavors, and the fact that everything cooks in just one pan? It’s pure magic.
After years of testing pasta recipes in professional kitchens and countless home experiments, I’ve discovered the secret to pasta perfection lies in cooking it directly in the sauce. This method infuses every strand with flavor while creating the creamiest texture imaginable.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from selecting the perfect pasta shape to my pro tips for avoiding common pitfalls. Plus, I’ll share variations that’ll keep this recipe fresh in your rotation for months to come.
Why This One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta Recipe Works
There’s something truly special about a recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. This one-pan sun-dried tomato pasta hits all the right notes, and here’s why it’s become a staple in kitchens worldwide:
• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients – No need for specialty shopping trips. Sun-dried tomatoes, angel hair pasta, and basic seasonings create extraordinary flavor • Ready in just 15 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss • One-pan convenience – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and the company around your table • Endlessly customizable – Add protein, swap vegetables, or adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences • Budget-friendly luxury – Creates an elegant, restaurant-style dish without breaking the bank
The beauty of this recipe lies in its technique. By cooking the pasta directly in the flavorful liquid, each strand absorbs the essence of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s a method I learned during my culinary training, and it transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
Choosing the Right Pasta for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
The pasta you choose can make or break this dish. Let me share my insights on selecting the perfect pasta for optimal results.
Best Pasta Shapes for This One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Angel hair pasta is my top choice for this recipe, and there’s science behind this selection. Its thin profile allows it to cook quickly and evenly in the simmering liquid, while its delicate texture pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. The thin strands grab onto every bit of that sun-dried tomato goodness.
Alternative options that work wonderfully include linguine, thin spaghetti, or even penne if you prefer a heartier bite. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly – thicker pastas will need an extra 2-3 minutes.
Buying Tips for Your One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
When shopping for pasta, look for brands made with durum wheat semolina. The packaging should feel firm, and the pasta should have a slightly golden color. Avoid any boxes with visible pasta fragments, as this indicates poor handling.
For the best results, choose pasta that’s made in Italy or by Italian-owned companies. The texture and flavor difference is remarkable and worth the small price increase.
Substitutions for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
If angel hair isn’t available, thin spaghetti works perfectly. For a gluten-free version, use rice noodles or chickpea pasta, but reduce the cooking liquid by about 1/4 cup as these alternatives absorb less moisture.
Ingredients & Prep for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients. Let me break down everything you need to create pasta perfection.
Pasta Prep Essentials for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Preparation is key to success with this recipe. Have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking – this dish comes together quickly, and you won’t have time to scramble for ingredients mid-process.
Room temperature dairy is crucial. Cold half-and-half can cause the sauce to break or curdle. Remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking, or warm it slightly in the microwave for 20 seconds.
Flavor Base for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
The sun-dried tomatoes are the star of this show. I prefer those packed in oil rather than the dry-packed variety, as the oil adds richness and flavor. Drain them well, but save that precious oil – it’s liquid gold for other recipes.
Fresh garlic makes all the difference. Pre-minced garlic from a jar simply can’t compete with the sharp, aromatic punch of freshly minced cloves. Take the extra minute to mince your own.
Pantry Staples for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Quality chicken stock forms the foundation of our cooking liquid. I prefer low-sodium varieties so I can control the salt level. Bone broth adds extra richness and protein if you have it on hand.
Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for the best melting properties and flavor. Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Let me walk you through each step of creating this incredible dish. Pay attention to the details – they make all the difference.
Pre-Cooking Prep for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Start with the right pan – a large, wide skillet is essential. You need enough surface area for the pasta to lie relatively flat and cook evenly. A 12-inch skillet works perfectly for this recipe.
Prepare your mise en place – that’s chef-speak for having everything ready. Mince your garlic, drain your sun-dried tomatoes, measure your seasonings, and have your pasta ready to go.
Cooking Method for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Build the flavor base – Heat your skillet over medium-low heat. This gentle temperature prevents the garlic from burning while allowing it to release its aromatic oils. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the cooking liquid – Pour in chicken stock, add sun-dried tomatoes and all seasonings. The key here is to slowly incorporate the half-and-half to prevent curdling. Bring to a gentle boil – aggressive bubbling can break the sauce.
Step 3: Add the pasta – Here’s where the magic happens. Add the angel hair pasta and let it sit for 30 seconds. This allows the pasta to soften slightly, making it easier to submerge without breaking.
Doneness Check for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Test for al dente – After about 5 minutes of simmering, start testing the pasta. It should have a slight bite but no hard center. Remember, it will continue cooking slightly even after you remove it from heat.
Sauce consistency – The sauce should coat the pasta lightly but not be soupy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken stock. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for another minute.
Resting for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Let it settle – Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Add the Parmesan cheese during this resting period for the smoothest incorporation.
Pro Tips for Perfect One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
After years of perfecting this recipe, I’ve learned some invaluable tricks that guarantee success every time.
Avoiding Common Mistakes with One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Don’t rush the garlic – Burned garlic will make your entire dish bitter. Keep the heat at medium-low and watch carefully. The garlic should sizzle gently and become fragrant, not brown.
Temperature control is everything – Too high heat will cause the dairy to curdle and the pasta to cook unevenly. Maintain a gentle simmer throughout the cooking process.
Pasta placement matters – When adding the pasta, arrange it as evenly as possible in the pan. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some strands from being overcooked while others remain underdone.
Tool Recommendations for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
A good wide skillet is essential – I recommend a 12-inch stainless steel or non-stick pan with high sides. Cast iron works but requires more careful heat management.
Long-handled tongs are your best friend for manipulating the pasta without breaking it. Avoid using a fork, which can tear the delicate angel hair.
Storage & Reheating for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb more sauce as it sits, which is actually quite delicious.
Reheating technique – Add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce, then reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Microwave reheating works but can make the pasta mushy.
Flavor Variations for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easily it adapts to different flavor profiles and dietary needs.
Spicy Twist for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Add heat gradually – Start with 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes and adjust to taste. For a smoky kick, try chipotle pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
Fresh chilies work beautifully too. Finely diced jalapeños or serrano peppers added with the garlic create a fresh, bright heat that complements the rich sun-dried tomatoes.
Keto/Paleo Options for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Vegetable noodles transform this dish into a low-carb masterpiece. Zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles all work wonderfully. Reduce the cooking liquid by half when using vegetable alternatives.
Coconut cream can replace the half-and-half for a dairy-free version. It adds a subtle tropical note that pairs surprisingly well with the Mediterranean flavors.
Global Flavors for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Mediterranean enhancement – Add kalamata olives, capers, and fresh basil for a Greek-inspired twist. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the entire dish.
Italian herb crust – Mix breadcrumbs with dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Sprinkle over the finished pasta for textural contrast.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Cooking Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Version | Red pepper flakes, chipotle powder | Add with seasonings |
| Protein-Packed | Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage | Add pre-cooked protein in final 2 minutes |
| Vegetarian Boost | Spinach, mushrooms, roasted red peppers | Add vegetables with sun-dried tomatoes |
| Mediterranean | Olives, capers, fresh basil, lemon zest | Stir in after cooking, except basil (add fresh) |
| Creamy Deluxe | Extra cream cheese, heavy cream instead of half-and-half | Increases richness and calories |
Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
The beauty of this dish lies not just in its flavors, but in how well it pairs with other elements to create a complete meal experience.
Pair with fresh sides – A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to your plate.
Bread makes it complete – Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce. I often make a quick garlic butter using the sun-dried tomato oil.
Wine pairings – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, herbaceous flavors beautifully. For red wine lovers, a light Chianti works wonderfully without overpowering the delicate pasta.
Beer alternatives – A wheat beer or light lager provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.
FAQs About One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Can I use frozen ingredients for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta?
Fresh is best, but frozen can work in a pinch. If using frozen garlic, thaw it completely and drain any excess water. Frozen sun-dried tomatoes aren’t recommended as they become mushy and lose their concentrated flavor.
How do I fix overcooked One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta?
Prevention is key, but if it happens, immediately remove from heat and stir in a splash of cold chicken stock or cream. The pasta will be softer than ideal, but the dish is still delicious. In the future, test the pasta frequently after the 4-minute mark.
Is this One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta recipe safe for pregnant women?
Yes, absolutely! All ingredients are pregnancy-safe when using pasteurized dairy products. The dish is fully cooked and contains no raw ingredients. However, if you’re watching sodium intake, use low-sodium chicken stock and adjust salt to taste.
Can I make One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance. Pre-mince garlic, drain tomatoes, and measure seasonings up to a day ahead. The actual cooking should be done just before serving for optimal texture.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes for this pasta recipe?
Fresh cherry tomatoes can substitute in a pinch – use about 1 cup, halved, and sauté them with the garlic until slightly caramelized. The flavor will be different but still delicious. Roasted red peppers also work for a similar sweet, concentrated flavor.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about creating a restaurant-quality meal in just one pan, and this One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta delivers that magic every single time. The combination of tender pasta, rich creamy sauce, and those intensely flavored sun-dried tomatoes creates a symphony of taste that never gets old.
Fire up your stove and try this tonight! I promise you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can transform into something so extraordinary. The best part? Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen, but we’ll keep the 15-minute secret between us.
Join the thousands of home cooks who have made this their go-to weeknight dinner. Tag me @foodfansy on Instagram – I love seeing your beautiful creations and hearing about your own variations.
Ready for your next culinary adventure? Try our [Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta] or [Mediterranean Chicken Skillet] next! Both use similar one-pan techniques and will expand your repertoire of quick, impressive meals.
Remember, cooking is about more than just following recipes – it’s about creating moments, sharing love, and bringing people together around the table. That’s what FoodFansy is all about.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later!
I’d love to see your unique twist—feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!
Happy cooking! – Emeli
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One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta: Ultimate 15-Minute Creamy Recipe
- Total Time: 15mins
Description
introduce you to this easy one-pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta! It’s such a versatile recipe, takes 10 minutes and uses just a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken stock or bone broth for extra protein
- 1/2 cup half and half or whole milk room temperature
- 1-8 oz jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, oil drained
- 8 oz angel hair pasta*
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons optional – softened cream cheese for extra creaminess
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- optional – 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-low, add butter and garlic to a pan, saute about 1 minute or until fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings. Slowly pour in the half and half then bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the pasta in, allowing it to sit for 30 seconds until you can maneuver it down into the liquid without breaking the pasta.
- Let pasta cook submerged in simmering liquid for about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to simmer (and add cream cheese now if using, letting it melt into the sauce). Continue to cook until pasta is al dente.
- Sprinkle over the parmesan and add more salt and pepper if needed. You can add a splash more chicken stock or half and half if needed to add a little more liquidity to your pasta if it absorbs all the pan sauce.
Notes
* Spaghetti or bucatini can be used instead, may need to extend cooking time to reach al dente
TO REHEAT:
Add a splash of chicken stock and/or half and half to rehydrate the pasta before microwaving.
- Prep Time: 5mins
- Cook Time: 10mins
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1Serving
- Calories: 556.5kcal
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 9g
Keywords: One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta