One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy, garlicky sauce—all made in a single pan for easy cleanup. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, slightly sweet intensity, while Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a touch of red pepper flakes bring everything together for a perfectly balanced bite.

The first time I made this, I was craving something creamy yet vibrant, and this pasta delivered in every way. The sun-dried tomatoes infused the sauce with an irresistible depth of flavor, while the pasta cooked right in the same pan, soaking up all the deliciousness. A sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan on top made it absolutely perfect!

What I love about One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is how simple yet indulgent it is. Whether served as a quick weeknight meal or dressed up for a special occasion, this dish is effortlessly creamy, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to be a favorite!

Perfect for:

Quick and easy dinners
Busy weeknights
One-pan meal lovers
Comfort food cravings
Meal prep and leftovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta will be your new go-to meal:

Bursting with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, tangy richness to the dish.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup effortless.
Creamy and Comforting: The sauce is rich, velvety, and coats the pasta beautifully.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for a busy schedule.
Perfectly Balanced: A mix of tangy, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite.
Customizable Ingredients: Add protein, veggies, or extra spices to make it your own.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Tastes like a gourmet meal with minimal effort.
Great for Meal Prep: Reheats well and stays delicious for days.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy tomato goodness.
Vegetarian-Friendly: A satisfying meatless meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup baby spinach (optional)
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Ingredient Highlights

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Infuse the dish with a rich, tangy depth of flavor.
Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that enhances every bite.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a subtle kick of heat.
Baby Spinach: Brings freshness and a nutritional boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Base:

Heat the Oil: In a large pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.

Simmer the Sauce:

Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, followed by Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged.
Simmer Until Tender: Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Make It Creamy:

Pour in the Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, letting it warm through.
Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle in the Parmesan, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add Spinach: If using, stir in the baby spinach until wilted.

Finish and Serve:

Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta:

With Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread for the perfect pairing.
Topped with Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan never hurts!
With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness.
With Grilled Chicken: Add protein by topping with sliced grilled chicken.
For a Romantic Dinner: A simple yet elegant meal for a cozy night in.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted zucchini or bell peppers.
As a Potluck Dish: Perfect for sharing at gatherings.
With Crusty Bread: Use a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Topped with Fresh Herbs: A final touch of basil or parsley adds freshness.

Additional Tips

Use the Oil from the Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Instead of regular olive oil, use the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Choose the Right Pasta – Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best as it absorbs the sauce well, but spaghetti or fettuccine also work if stirred frequently.
Add Protein – Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
Balance the Acidity – If the sun-dried tomatoes are too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow the flavor.
Boost the Creaminess – Stir in a bit of cream cheese, ricotta, or heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Use Fresh Herbs – Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste.
Save Some Pasta Water – A splash of starchy pasta water helps thicken the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
Include Vegetables – Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and texture.
Spice It Up – A dash of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Let It Rest Before Serving – Allow the pasta to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.

Recipe Variations

Creamy Version – Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, silkier sauce.
Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers for extra heat.
Protein-Packed – Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for added protein.
Cheesy Delight – Mix in shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta for a melty, cheesy twist.
Garlic Butter Upgrade – Sauté extra minced garlic in butter before adding the pasta for a deeper, aromatic flavor.
Mediterranean Style – Add olives, artichokes, and capers for a briny, tangy contrast.
Pesto Fusion – Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto for fresh, herby depth.
Mushroom Lovers – Sauté mushrooms along with the sun-dried tomatoes for an earthy, umami-rich version.
Low-Carb Alternative – Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter option.
Lemon & Herb Freshness – Finish with fresh lemon juice and chopped basil or parsley for a bright, zesty finish.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet or Pan: For cooking everything in one place.
Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring pasta and sauce.
Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese.
Ladle: For portioning out servings neatly.

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes! You can substitute fresh cherry tomatoes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a richer, more concentrated flavor. If using fresh, consider adding a bit of tomato paste for depth.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works best, but you can also use spaghetti or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No, that’s the beauty of this recipe! The pasta cooks directly in the pan with the sauce, absorbing all the flavors.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit any cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
What protein can I add to this pasta?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great protein additions. Simply cook them before adding them to the pasta.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
Stir in a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or a dollop of cream cheese toward the end of cooking for a richer sauce.
Can I prepare this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s naturally mild, but you can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster or break down more easily.
What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish.

Conclusion

One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tangy sun-dried tomatoes, tender pasta, and a luscious garlic-infused sauce—all made in just one pan for easy cleanup. The deep, slightly smoky flavor of the tomatoes blends perfectly with creamy Parmesan, fresh basil, and a hint of red pepper flakes for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this pasta can be made with grilled chicken for extra protein, spinach for a fresh touch, or a splash of white wine for added depth. Whether served as a simple weeknight meal or dressed up for a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a new favorite!

I can’t wait to see how your One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!