One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm bowl of pasta at the end of a long day. And when that pasta is creamy, flavorful, and requires only one pot to prepare, it’s a recipe that instantly becomes a weeknight favorite. This One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a dish you’ll turn to again and again — rich and luscious yet simple to make, combining the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with velvety cream and perfectly cooked pasta.

Unlike complicated pasta recipes that leave you juggling multiple pots and pans, this one-pot method saves time and makes cleanup a breeze. It’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights, cozy dinners with family, or even entertaining guests when you want something that looks elegant but is surprisingly effortless.

In this guide, we’ll walk through every step of the recipe, from ingredients and tools to cooking instructions, pro tips, and nutritional breakdown. By the end, you’ll see why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this recipe:

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for extra flavor)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth

• 2 cups heavy cream (or substitute half-and-half for a lighter version)

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for extra nutrients and color)

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large, deep skillet or sauté pan with lid

• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Chef’s knife and cutting board

• Cheese grater

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant and softened. This base infuses the dish with deep flavor.

Step 2: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their rich, tangy flavor into the oil.

Step 3: Deglaze with Broth

Pour in the broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any caramelized bits. This step adds depth and ensures nothing sticks.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Cream

Add the uncooked pasta directly to the pan, followed by the heavy cream. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is fully submerged.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente. The pasta absorbs the cream and broth, creating a luscious, one-pot sauce.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Spinach

Once the pasta is tender, add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens. If using spinach, fold it in at this stage — it will wilt perfectly into the hot pasta.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

1. Use pasta with ridges like penne or rigatoni — they hold onto the creamy sauce better.

2. Don’t skimp on Parmesan. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.

3. Control the creaminess. Add extra broth if the sauce gets too thick.

4. Boost protein. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to make it a complete meal.

5. Make it vegan. Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy cream and Parmesan.

Serving Ideas

This pasta pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.

• Garlic bread or homemade focaccia.

• A glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Approximate Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 480

• Carbohydrates: 52 g

• Protein: 12 g

• Fat: 25 g

• Saturated Fat: 14 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sodium: 480 mg

Why This Recipe Works

The brilliance of One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta lies in the balance of flavor and simplicity:

• The sun-dried tomatoes provide tangy sweetness.

• The cream and Parmesan deliver richness.

• The one-pot method locks in flavor and saves time.

This dish is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated — it just needs the right ingredients and a smart technique.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add extra chili flakes or chopped jalapeños.

• Mediterranean Twist: Toss in olives and artichokes.

• Dairy-Free: Swap in cashew cream.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure broth is gluten-free.

Storing and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

• Avoid freezing, as creamy sauces can separate.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is more than just a recipe — it’s a solution for anyone who wants to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick enough for weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining, and endlessly adaptable to your taste.

The next time you’re craving pasta that feels indulgent but doesn’t overwhelm your schedule, make this recipe. You’ll love how the sun-dried tomatoes bring a punch of flavor that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.