This sun-dried tomato pasta is designed to deliver rich flavor with minimal time and effort. It’s the perfect solution for frantic weeknights when you need dinner on the table in a hurry without sacrificing flavor. The use of a single pan simplifies cleanup and ensures the pasta is infused with the savory, tangy richness of the sauce. Crafted by Rosa, this easy, one-pan dish is ready in about fifteen minutes from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Cleanup: Only one pan is needed, which keeps things simple.
- Speedy: The meal is ready in approximately fifteen minutes (5 minutes prep, 10 minutes cook time).
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses just a handful of pantry and fridge staple.
- Creamy Sauce: Achieves a rich, creamy sauce without any heavy cream.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite pasta shapes or spices.
ingredients
| Category | Item | Amount | Notes |
| Dairy and Fats | Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons
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Gives a rich, savory base.
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| Half and half | 1/2 cup
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Use room temperature dairy for easiest blending.
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| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/3 cup
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Grate just before using for the best flavor and melt.
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| Softened cream cheese (optional) | 2 tablespoons
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Makes the sauce extra silky and smooth (use full fat).
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| Produce & Aromatics | Minced garlic | 3 cloves
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Adds important depth and aroma.
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| Pantry | Angel hair pasta | 8 ounces
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Cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavor24.
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| Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil | 1 jar (8 ounces), drained
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Drain the oil well for a balanced sauce.
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| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon
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Use a fresh jar for more vibrance
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| Freshly cracked black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon
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| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon
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| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon
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Adds a little pop of heat.
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| Liquids | Chicken stock or bone broth | 2 cups
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Use low-sodium to control seasoning.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 01: Sauté The Garlic And Butter
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 1 minute until it becomes golden and fragrant. (Do not rush this part as the garlic flavor builds the sauce base ).
Step 02: Simmer The Saucy Components
Pour in the chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well. Slowly add the half and half while stirring. (This lets the dairy gently warm up and prevents it from curdling ). Bring the mixture up until the liquid is just at a gentle boil.
Step 03: Nestle In The Pasta
Lay the angel hair pasta into the skillet all at once. Let it sit for 30 seconds before gently pushing it into the liquid to avoid snapping it apart and allow it to soften evenly.
Step 04: Cook To Creamy Perfection
Let the pasta cook submerged in the simmering sauce for approximately 5 minutes. Then, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. If using cream cheese, add it now and let it melt fully into the sauce. Continue cooking until the noodles are just al dente and the sauce is thick and glossy.
Step 05: Finish With Cheese And Adjust
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the whole skillet and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt and pepper as needed. If the pasta has absorbed all the liquid, add a little splash of chicken stock or half and half to loosen the sauce up.
Tips, Substitutions, & Storage
Ingredient Substitutions
- Pasta: You can swap spaghetti or bucatini for angel hair pasta, but you will need to cook a few minutes longer.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock/bone broth60. Skip the parmesan or sub in nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe.
- Dairy: You can substitute whole milk for half and half.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: This pasta is excellent with a crisp green salad or a handful of steamed asparagus.
- Protein: For extra protein, add shredded cooked chicken or toss in a cup of baby spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts right before serving if you love a crunch.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days.
- Reheating: For the best texture, add a splash of broth or milk before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. This brings the creamy sauce back to life.
