Easy One-Pan Sun-dried Pasta

This creamy sun dried tomato pasta has saved so many of my frantic weeknights when I need dinner on the table in a hurry without sacrificing flavor. It only requires one pan which means cleanup is easy and the combination of savory parmesan and tangy tomato always hits the spot.

Every time I have made this for friends, they are shocked at how quickly it comes together and I love how it tastes like much more work than it is.

Ingredients

• Butter: this gives a rich savory base and helps everything blend smoothly so look for real unsalted butter for best taste
• Fresh garlic: adds important depth and aroma fresh is best but jarred minced works if you are short on time
• Chicken stock or bone broth: gives a savoriness that brings the sauce together low sodium lets you control seasoning
• Half and half or whole milk: makes the sauce creamy room temperature dairy blends most easily so avoid cold from the fridge
• Sun dried tomatoes: pack a punch of flavor and tangy sweetness drain the oil well for a balanced sauce
• Angel hair pasta: this cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavor but spaghetti or bucatini will work too just adjust the cook time
• Parmesan cheese: grated just before using gives the best flavor and melt look for real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
• Cream cheese: optional but makes the sauce extra silky and smooth go for full fat and soften first
• Italian seasoning: brings a blend of herbs so choose a fresh jar for more vibrance
• Freshly cracked pepper and a pinch of salt: for seasoning grinding right before adds more heat
• Red pepper flakes: optional but add a little pop of heat

Step-by-Step 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 so it becomes golden and fragrant do not rush this part as the garlic flavor builds the sauce base

Simmer the Saucy Components:

Pour in chicken stock sun dried tomatoes Italian seasoning pepper salt and red pepper flakes if using stir well then slowly pour in the half and half this lets the dairy gently warm up and not curdle raise the heat until the liquid is just at a gentle boil

Nestle in the Pasta:

Lay the angel hair pasta into the skillet all at once let it sit for thirty seconds before you push it into the liquid this stops the pasta from snapping apart and allows it to soften evenly

Cook to Creamy Perfection:

Let the pasta cook in the simmering sauce for around five minutes then lower the heat to a gentle simmer if using cream cheese add it now and let it melt fully into the sauce stir often until noodles are just al dente and the sauce is thick and glossy

Finish with Cheese and Adjust:

Sprinkle grated parmesan over the whole skillet stir to combine and taste add more salt and pepper as needed if the sauce seems too thick pour in a little splash of chicken stock or half and half to loosen it up

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I am obsessed with sun dried tomatoes because their tangy sweet flavor gives so much oomph with almost no effort sometimes my kids sneak them right off the cutting board before I can stir them into the skillet I always keep an extra jar on hand now

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days For the best texture add a splash of broth or milk before reheating on the stove or in the microwave which brings the creamy sauce back to life

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap spaghetti or bucatini for angel hair just cook a few minutes longer If you want a vegetarian version use vegetable stock instead of chicken and skip the parmesan or sub in nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is beautiful with a crisp green salad or a handful of steamed asparagus For extra protein add shredded cooked chicken or toss in a cup of baby spinach in the last few minutes of cooking If you love a crunch sprinkle with toasted pine nuts right before serving

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The Roots of Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

This dish has its roots in Italian cucina povera where cooks created big flavor from simple ingredients Sun dried tomatoes became popular for their intense flavor and ability to keep well over the winter they give this quick dish a surprisingly deep taste that feels straight from a trattoria

Recipe FAQs

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

Yes, spaghetti or bucatini can be used as substitutes. Just be aware that they might require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the perfect tenderness.

→ What can I add for extra creaminess?

Softened cream cheese is a great option to stir in towards the end of cooking, enriching the sauce with a smooth and luscious texture.

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

Ensure the pasta is gently pushed down into the simmering liquid shortly after adding it, allowing it to absorb moisture evenly and cook without breaking apart.

→ Can I use broth other than chicken stock?

Absolutely. Bone broth is a flavorful alternative that also adds a boost of protein and richness to the dish.

→ How should I reheat leftovers to maintain texture?

Add a splash of chicken stock or half and half before gently reheating, which helps to rehydrate the pasta and keep the sauce creamy.