Easy One-Pan Sun-dried Pasta

This sundried tomato pasta recipe is designed for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. By cooking everything in one pan, you get a creamy and tangy sauce that clings perfectly to tender pasta with minimal cleanup. The combination of savory parmesan, bright sundried tomatoes, and gentle herbs makes for a comforting meal that feels special despite its simplicity.

I first made this during a hectic weekday evening and now it’s a go-to whenever I need a quick and satisfying dinner. Friends are always surprised it comes together so fast with such fresh flavor.

Ingredients

• Butter: giving a rich savory base that helps everything blend smoothly so choose real unsalted butter for best taste
• Fresh garlic: adds important depth and aroma fresh is best but jarred minced can work in a pinch
• Chicken stock or bone broth: provides a savoriness that brings the sauce together low sodium options let you control seasoning
• Half and half or whole milk: creates the creamy texture room temperature works best for smooth blending
• Sun dried tomatoes: bring a punch of tangy sweetness drain the oil well for balanced flavor
• Angel hair pasta: cooks quickly and soaks up all the sauce but spaghetti or bucatini can be substituted with adjusted cooking time
• Parmesan cheese: grated just before using gives the best flavor and melt look for authentic Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
• Cream cheese: optional but makes the sauce extra silky and smooth use full fat and soften before adding
• Italian seasoning: delivers a blend of herbs choose a fresh jar for more vibrant flavor
• Freshly cracked pepper and a pinch of salt: for seasoning grind fresh for best taste
• Red pepper flakes: optional for a little pop of heat

Instructions

Sauté the Garlic and Butter:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium low heat add minced garlic and let it cook gently for one minute until golden and fragrant do not rush this step as it builds the flavor base for the sauce

Simmer the Saucy Components:

Pour in chicken stock sun dried tomatoes Italian seasoning pepper salt and red pepper flakes if using stir gently then slowly add the half and half allowing the dairy to warm without curdling raise heat until the liquid reaches a gentle boil

Nestle in the Pasta:

Lay the angel hair pasta into the skillet all at once let it sit undisturbed for thirty seconds before pushing it into the liquid this prevents the pasta from snapping and allows even softening

Cook to Creamy Perfection:

Cook pasta in the simmering sauce for about five minutes then reduce heat to a gentle simmer if using cream cheese add now and stir frequently until sauce is thick and noodles are just al dente

Finish with Cheese and Adjust:

Sprinkle grated parmesan over the skillet stir to combine and taste adjust salt and pepper as needed if sauce is too thick add a little chicken stock or half and half to loosen it gently

I am obsessed with sun dried tomatoes because their tangy sweet flavor gives so much oomph with very little effort Sometimes my kids sneak them right off the cutting board before they even make it into the skillet I always keep an extra jar on hand now

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days To reheat add a splash of broth or milk and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to revive the creamy texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Spaghetti or bucatini can replace angel hair just cook a few minutes longer for perfect doneness Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version and omit the parmesan or substitute nutritional yeast for a cheesy note

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or some steamed asparagus for a fresh contrast Add shredded cooked chicken or toss in baby spinach near the end of cooking to boost protein and nutrition Toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top add a lovely crunch

Enjoy this creamy sundried tomato pasta warm with a simple salad on the side. It comes together in minutes for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other pasta types instead of angel hair?

Yes, spaghetti or bucatini work well but may require a few extra minutes of cooking to reach the desired tenderness.

→ What can I add for extra creaminess?

Softened cream cheese stirred in at the end enriches the sauce, making it smoother and more luscious.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?

Gently push the pasta into the simmering sauce shortly after adding it to soften evenly and avoid snapping or sticking.

→ Can I use broth other than chicken stock?

Bone broth is a great alternative that adds richness and protein. Vegetable stock works well for a vegetarian option.

→ How should I reheat leftovers to maintain texture?

Add a splash of chicken stock or half and half before reheating gently on the stove or microwave to preserve creaminess and texture.