If you’re craving a meal that’s quick to whip up yet bursts with rich, comforting flavors, this One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pasta swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the tangy sweetness of sundried tomatoes and the savory depth of garlic and Parmesan. It all comes together in a single pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or treating yourself after a long day, this dish feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your pasta. They come together effortlessly, making this dish a true weeknight winner.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli): Choose your favorite shape to hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently cook the garlic without burning.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and that classic savory punch.
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped: The star ingredient bringing a delightful tangy sweetness.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds flavor while cooking the pasta, infusing it with a subtle savory base.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious sauce that clings to every bite.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Boosts umami and adds a nutty, salty finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
How to Make One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Garlic to Release Its Aroma
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook it for about one minute until it becomes fragrant—but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. This step sets the stage for building the rich flavor profile of your pasta.
Step 2: Sauté the Sundried Tomatoes
Next, add the chopped sundried tomatoes directly into the skillet with the garlic. Cook for another two minutes, stirring occasionally. This lets their natural oils and tangy flavors infuse the oil and garlic, creating an irresistible aromatic base that starts to pour magic into your dish.
Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta, Then Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add your pasta of choice. Since everything’s cooking together, the pasta absorbs the flavorful broth as it softens. Stir occasionally and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. This technique means less mess and more taste without waiting or draining.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan for the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta evenly. This step transforms the dish into a rich, creamy masterpiece that’s both comforting and elegant.
Step 5: Season and Serve Hot
Finally, season your One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything one last stir, and your delicious, creamy pasta is ready to hit the table hot. The balance of tangy sundried tomatoes, cheesy creaminess, and vibrant garlic flavor makes each bite unforgettable.
How to Serve One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe experience, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan also add a lovely finishing touch that makes every bite feel homemade and special.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, like arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad, which provide a refreshing contrast to the richness. Garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls are also fantastic on the side to soak up any leftover sauce, making it even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your pasta in individual mini cast-iron skillets or deep bowls topped with edible flowers or microgreens. It’s perfect for entertaining or turning dinner into a cozy date night. You can also add protein like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to transform it into a heartier meal while keeping that luscious sauce front and center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
While cream-based pasta dishes don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze this recipe if you slightly undercook the pasta before freezing. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture without drying out. Alternatively, the microwave works fine—heat in short bursts while stirring in between to ensure even warming and prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth is a wonderful substitute that keeps this dish vegetarian-friendly while still adding plenty of flavor to the pasta as it cooks.
What type of sundried tomatoes works best? Dried or oil-packed?
Both can work, but oil-packed sundried tomatoes usually provide more intense flavor and a softer texture right away. If using dried ones, rehydrate them in warm water or broth before adding.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream sauce and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Just choose a gluten-free pasta variety that cooks similarly to penne or fusilli, ensuring the same excellent results without gluten.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or finish with a drizzle of chili oil for a gentle heat that complements the sundried tomatoes without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a meal that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss, and this One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe perfectly fits that bill. It’s creamy, tangy, and comforting all at once, plus it comes together in just about 25 minutes. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new go-to pasta that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and laid-back weekends.
Print
One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One-Pan Sundried Tomato Pasta is a quick and flavorful Italian-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners. With the savory richness of sundried tomatoes, creamy Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta cooked all in one skillet, it offers a delicious, hassle-free meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to preserve its delicate aroma.
- Sauté sundried tomatoes: Add the chopped sundried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps release their rich, tangy flavor into the oil, forming the base of the sauce.
- Add broth and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the pasta directly to the skillet and cook according to package instructions until al dente, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavorful broth while it cooks.
- Make the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the pasta, creating a creamy texture.
- Season: Adjust the flavor by adding salt and pepper to taste. Serve the pasta hot for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make a vegetarian-friendly version (omit Parmesan or use a vegetarian alternative).
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken or shrimp before adding the cream.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- This recipe works well with gluten-free pasta if needed.
