One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A Beginner’s Dream Dish

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that requires minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A Beginner’s Dream Dish is my go-to recipe when I want something comforting but don’t have much time. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family gathering. Plus, the best part is that everything cooks in just one pan—so less cleanup for you!

I love how this dish combines the tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes with the creamy goodness of cheese and pasta. It’s a fantastic way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pan Wonder: All the magic happens in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce creates a rich flavor that everyone will adore.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for those new to cooking, with simple steps and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients is half the fun! This One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta uses simple, wholesome items you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken stock or bone broth (for extra protein)
• ½ cup half and half or whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 (8-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, oil drained
• 8 ounces angel hair pasta (or spaghetti/bucatini if preferred)

For Creaminess and Flavor

• ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or make use of what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the pasta shape: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like—fettuccine or penne work wonderfully too!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or ricotta instead of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Boost the protein: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to turn this into a heartier meal.

How to Make One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A Beginner’s Dream Dish

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the butter and let it melt before tossing in the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant—this step infuses your dish with wonderful flavors. Just be careful not to let it brown; burnt garlic can ruin your sauce.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Pour in the chicken stock along with the drained sun-dried tomatoes and all those lovely seasonings: Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and optional red pepper flakes if you crave some heat. Stir everything together for about 30 seconds—this helps meld all those delightful flavors before adding more ingredients.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Element

Now it’s time to create that luscious sauce! Slowly pour in the half and half while stirring continuously. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil; then reduce the heat slightly to prevent scorching. This step ensures your sauce will be rich and creamy by incorporating all those tasty elements.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce

Add your angel hair pasta to the pan after letting it sit for about 30 seconds. Gently push it down into the liquid—you want every strand fully submerged! Let it cook in that simmering sauce for about 5 minutes. If you’re using spaghetti or bucatini instead, you may need to add an extra minute or two. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking together.

Step 5: Finish with Creaminess

If you’re opting for cream cheese, now’s your chance to add it! Just stir until it melts into the sauce—this adds an irresistible layer of creaminess without overwhelming that beautiful sun-dried tomato flavor.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Adjust Consistency

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over your pasta, stirring well to distribute evenly throughout. Give it a taste! If needed, adjust with more salt or pepper according to your liking. Should your sauce thicken too much during cooking, simply add a splash more chicken stock or half and half until you achieve that silky smooth consistency that clings beautifully to each piece of pasta.

And there you have it—a delightful One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta ready to enjoy! Serve it up warm with some fresh herbs on top if you’d like. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A Beginner’s Dream Dish

Cooking is all about practice, and with these handy tips, you’ll be a pro at making this delicious pasta in no time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. They add brightness and depth that dried or processed versions may lack.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since you’ll be cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Perfectly al dente pasta will give you that wonderful texture that complements the creamy sauce.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different! Be sure to taste your dish before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat.
• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan adds a lovely flavor, you can try other cheeses like pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Each cheese will give a unique twist to the overall taste!
• Make It Your Own: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables—like spinach or mushrooms—into the pan while cooking. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances flavors and textures.

How to Serve One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A Beginner’s Dream Dish

Serving this One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is all about presentation and pairing. With just a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this dish into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil right before serving brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing note that beautifully balances the rich sauce.
• Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top creates an inviting look and enhances the cheesy goodness of your pasta.
• Lemon Zest: For a zesty kick, grate some lemon zest over the finished dish. It adds a burst of freshness that complements the sun-dried tomatoes wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. Plus, who can resist warm, buttery bread?
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring color and nutrition to your meal while adding earthy flavors.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also provides a nice crunch alongside your creamy pasta.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re ready to impress your family or friends with this delightful One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is not only a delight to make but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making your busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
• If the pasta thickens while stored, you can add a splash of chicken stock or half and half when reheating.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or half and half to loosen the sauce.
• Stir frequently until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I customize the One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach or zucchini, or even some protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta?

The total time is just 15 minutes—5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for quick dinners!

What can I use instead of parmesan cheese in the One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta?

You can substitute nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, or try any hard cheese you enjoy that fits your dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta truly shines as a comforting yet simple dish that anyone can master. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will leave you wanting more! I hope you find joy in making this recipe, whether it’s for yourself or loved ones. Enjoy every delicious bite!