Easy One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: Your Ultimate Weeknight Dinner Solution
Tired of complicated weeknight meals that leave you with a mountain of dishes? Look no further! This incredible One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta recipe is here to revolutionize your dinner routine. Combining the rich, intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes with fragrant garlic, a luxurious heavy cream sauce, and salty Parmesan cheese, this dish delivers gourmet taste with minimal effort. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave something truly satisfying, healthy, and on the table in under 20 minutes.
Imagine a delicious, vibrant pasta dish that requires just one pot from start to finish. No separate boiling, no multiple saucepans – just pure, streamlined cooking bliss. This recipe is not only incredibly convenient but also packed with robust flavors that will make it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and the impressive results of this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta.
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Why You’ll Adore This One-Pot Pasta Recipe
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and easy meal. Here’s why our One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Unbeatable One-Pot Convenience: Forget about multiple pots and pans cluttering your sink. This entire meal, from sautéing the aromatics to cooking the pasta and creating the luscious sauce, happens in a single pot. This means drastically reduced cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. You can literally get this delicious dinner on the table in less than 20 minutes!
- Explosion of Flavor: Every bite of this pasta is bursting with incredible taste. The rich, concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes is perfectly complemented by aromatic garlic, a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, savory Italian seasoning, and a depth from tomato paste. Finally, the grated Parmesan cheese melts into a creamy perfection, creating a truly irresistible sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta.
- Effortless & Simple Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for exotic ingredients for this recipe. It relies on readily available staples like penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. The straightforward cooking method means even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results, requiring just a large pot or Dutch oven and a few simple steps.
- Highly Customizable: While perfect as is, this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta serves as an excellent base for your favorite additions. Easily incorporate your choice of protein or extra vegetables to make it even more substantial and nutritious. We’ll share some fantastic variation ideas below!
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Crafting this flavorful one-pot pasta requires a handful of simple, yet impactful ingredients. Each plays a vital role in building the incredible depth and creaminess of the sauce. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Olive Oil: The base for sautéing, it adds a subtle fruity note and helps release the flavors of the garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential here, providing a pungent, aromatic foundation for the sauce. Don’t skimp on the garlic – it truly makes a difference!
- Red Pepper Flakes: These dried and crushed chili peppers add a delightful touch of heat and complexity. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level, or omit them for a milder dish.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Oil-Packed): The star of the show! Sun-dried tomatoes offer an intense, sweet, and tangy tomato flavor that is concentrated during the drying process. Opt for oil-packed varieties (usually found in the pasta aisle near pesto) as the oil itself is infused with flavor and helps keep them moist. Chop them finely for even distribution throughout the sauce.
- Tomato Paste: A concentrated tomato product, tomato paste deepens the tomato flavor of the sauce and helps to thicken it, giving it a rich body without needing to simmer for hours.
- Italian Seasoning: This convenient blend of dried herbs, typically including oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, provides classic Mediterranean notes that complement the tomatoes and garlic beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: While fresh garlic is used, a touch of garlic powder amplifies that beloved garlicky flavor, ensuring it shines through in every bite.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a sharp, earthy counterpoint to the rich flavors.
- Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta is perfect for trapping the creamy sauce within its ridges. Any short pasta cut will work wonderfully here, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle, as they cook evenly in one pot.
- Chicken Broth: This is the primary liquid for cooking the pasta and forms the foundation of our sauce. Using chicken broth instead of plain water infuses the pasta with flavor from the very beginning. For a vegetarian option, simply substitute with vegetable broth.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to that incredibly luxurious, smooth, and rich sauce. Heavy cream adds a velvety texture and mellows the tanginess of the tomatoes, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Parmesan Cheese: A hard, sharp, and salty Italian cheese that melts into the sauce, adding a fantastic umami depth and contributing to its creaminess. Freshly grated Parmesan will always yield the best results.
- Fresh Basil and Parsley: Optional but highly recommended! A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil and parsley as a garnish adds a pop of color, freshness, and bright herbaceous notes that elevate the dish.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities and precise measurements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your One-Pot Masterpiece
Creating this delicious creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is surprisingly simple. Follow these easy steps to prepare a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
To the pot, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients well, cooking for another minute or two. This step helps to bloom the spices and deepen the rich tomato flavor, creating a more robust foundation for your sauce.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth
Now, add the uncooked penne pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid and evenly coated with the developing sauce base. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a steady simmer. Cook the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture, typically around 12-15 minutes, or according to package directions. It’s crucial to stir frequently during this step to prevent the penne from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking. The pasta will absorb the flavorful broth, enriching every strand. If the liquid evaporates completely before the pasta is fully cooked, simply add a splash of extra water or broth until it reaches your desired doneness.
Step 5: Perfect the Creamy Sauce
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked and most of the broth has been absorbed, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring gently until the cheese has completely melted, creating a velvety, luxurious sauce that coats every strand of pasta. If the sauce appears too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add another splash of water or heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish your beautiful creamy sun-dried tomato pasta with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and/or basil. These fresh herbs add a vibrant color and a delightful burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Pro Tips for the Perfect One-Pot Creamy Pasta
While this recipe is incredibly simple, a few expert tips can elevate your One-Pot Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta from great to absolutely exceptional:
- Use a Large Pot: A spacious pot or Dutch oven is crucial. It provides enough surface area for the pasta to cook evenly and prevents it from clumping together. Don’t overcrowd it!
- Stir Frequently: This is perhaps the most important tip for one-pot pasta. Regular stirring, especially during the cooking phase, prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures the starch is released into the sauce, contributing to its creamy texture.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preference. The flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and broth can vary, so adjusting is key.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente! Pasta continues to cook slightly after being removed from the heat. Al dente pasta has a pleasant chew and holds up better in the creamy sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick after adding the cream and Parmesan, simply whisk in a tablespoon or two of warm water or extra broth until it reaches your desired creaminess. If it’s too thin, let it simmer gently for another minute or two, stirring, to allow it to thicken slightly.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and offers a superior flavor. It’s worth the extra minute!
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple accompaniments to make it an even more elaborate dinner:
- Toasty Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Serve with some crusty Parmesan garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious creamy sauce.
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers make an excellent healthy addition.
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For an added protein boost, serve alongside or stir in grilled chicken breast or sautéed shrimp.
Creative Substitutions and Exciting Variations
One of the best things about this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is its versatility. Feel free to experiment and customize it to your taste and what you have on hand:
- Pasta Alternatives: While penne works great, any short pasta cuts like fusilli, rigatoni, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), or orecchiette will absorb the sauce beautifully. For a healthier or gluten-free option, consider using chickpea pasta, whole wheat pasta, spinach pasta, or protein pasta.
- Boost Your Protein: Easily transform this into a heartier meal. Add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, sautéed chicken breast strips, or quick-cooking shrimp. If adding raw chicken or sausage, brown it in the pot before adding garlic and proceeding with the recipe.
- Sneak in More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and texture with extra vegetables. Fresh spinach or kale can be wilted in at the end. Cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers (jarred or fresh), or sautéed mushrooms are also fantastic additions that complement the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Creamy Sauce Alternatives: For a slightly lighter but still creamy texture, you can experiment with cream cheese, creamy whipped ricotta cheese, or even blended cottage cheese instead of heavy cream. These options offer different flavor nuances while maintaining a rich consistency.
- Spice It Up: If you love a kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Herbs & Zest: Experiment with different fresh herbs like oregano or thyme. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end can brighten the flavors considerably.
Recommended Kitchen Equipment
This One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta lives up to its name, requiring minimal equipment for maximum flavor:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This is your hero! We highly recommend using a large nonstick pot to prevent pasta from sticking. While cast iron coated with enamel is versatile, some cooks find pasta tends to stick more in it compared to a good quality nonstick surface when making one-pot dishes. A pot with a capacity of at least 5-6 quarts is ideal.
- Wooden Spoon: Essential for stirring the pasta frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For mincing garlic and chopping sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Having leftovers of this delicious One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a treat! Here’s how to properly store and even freeze it:
- Refrigerator Storage: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and spoilage.
- Reheating Instructions: To reheat, gently warm portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. The sauce may thicken considerably in the refrigerator, so you’ll likely need to add a splash of water or chicken broth (or even a little extra heavy cream) to loosen the sauce and bring it back to its creamy consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Freezing Instructions: Yes, you can freeze this pasta! Allow the pasta to cool completely after cooking. Then, transfer it to freezer bags (pressing out as much air as possible) or an airtight, freezer-safe container. It’s often best to package it in smaller, individual portions. This makes defrosting and reheating much more convenient, as you can take out just what you need.
- Thawing and Reheating Frozen Pasta: When ready to enjoy, you can thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of liquid (water or broth) to restore its creaminess, or in the microwave. Be aware that pasta, especially cream-based sauces, can sometimes change texture slightly after freezing and thawing, but it will still be delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pot Pasta
Generally, for one-pot pasta, you want just enough liquid to barely cover the pasta. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly while allowing its starches to release into the liquid, which helps to thicken and enrich the sauce. For maximum flavor, we highly recommend using chicken or vegetable broth instead of plain water.
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with an equal amount of high-quality vegetable broth. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegetarian, making it an easy switch.
Short, sturdy pasta shapes work best for one-pot recipes as they cook more evenly and are less prone to clumping than long, thin pastas. Penne is excellent, but other great choices include fusilli, rigatoni, farfalle (bow-ties), or orecchiette. Their shapes also do a wonderful job of holding onto the creamy sauce.
While fresh tomatoes will add a different flavor profile, sun-dried tomatoes are key to the intense, concentrated tomato flavor in this specific recipe. If you prefer fresh, consider adding cherry tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking, but understand the overall taste will be milder and less rich in tomato essence.
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One Pot Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Equipment
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Large pot
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 8 oz oil-packed sun dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil and parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
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Add the chopped sun dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
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Add the penne pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a low boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the pasta is not fully cooked and there is no broth remaining, add a splash of water until the penne reaches the desired doneness.
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Once the pasta is cooked, remove it from the heat and add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or heavy cream.
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Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm.
Video
Notes
Storage: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool, then add it to freezer bags or an airtight container. It’s best to package it in smaller portions to make defrosting easier.
Nutrition
Looking for other quick and delicious pasta recipes like this? Explore more of our easy one-pot creations to simplify your meal prep and delight your taste buds:
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We hope this detailed guide inspires you to create this incredibly satisfying and easy One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients and smart cooking techniques can deliver an extraordinary meal. Enjoy your flavorful and hassle-free weeknight dinner!