Sun Dried Tomato Pasta: Amazing 30-Minute Meal

July 27, 2025

Sun dried tomato pasta has a way of making any night feel a little more special, even on a Tuesday! I remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma of garlic and those intensely sweet sun-dried tomatoes filled the kitchen, and my kids, usually picky eaters, were asking for seconds before they even finished their first plate. It’s truly an easy sun-dried tomato pasta to master, and I’m so excited to share exactly how to make sun-dried tomato pasta that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly satisfying. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Incredible flavor explosion with sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
It’s a super quick sun-dried tomato pasta, ready in about 30 minutes.
Packed with healthy ingredients like tomatoes and garlic.
Budget-friendly with common pantry staples.
A guaranteed family favorite that even picky eaters adore.
Versatile enough for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests.
This quick sun-dried tomato pasta is incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients for Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Gathering the right sun-dried tomato pasta ingredients is key to this dish’s amazing flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal:

8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) – I like using penne because the sauce clings to it perfectly.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped – These little gems are the star, packing a sweet and tangy punch.
3 tablespoons olive oil – Using the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar adds extra flavor!
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic base.
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little warmth, but you can skip if you prefer it mild.
1 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta water – This helps create our luscious sauce.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that essential creamy, cheesy finish.
Salt and pepper to taste – Always season to your preference!
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish – A pop of fresh green and basil aroma makes it perfect.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, cook your pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water according to the package directions until it’s al dente. I always reserve about ½ cup of that starchy pasta water before draining – it’s liquid gold for our sauce!
Step 2: Grab a large skillet and heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. I love using the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for an extra flavor boost! Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Sauté them for about a minute, just until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma – be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Toss in your chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let them sizzle in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes. This short time helps to really wake up their intense, sweet flavor and soften them just a bit more.
Step 4: Now it’s time to build the base of our delicious sun-dried tomato pasta sauce. Pour in the vegetable broth or that reserved pasta water. Let it simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich sauce.
Step 5: Add the drained, cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently with tongs, making sure every strand or piece of pasta is coated in that gorgeous, vibrant sun-dried tomato pasta sauce.
Step 6: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into the sauce, transforming it into a creamy, luscious coating for the pasta. This is where the magic happens for a truly decadent sun-dried tomato pasta sauce experience.
Step 7: Taste your creation and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce seems a little too thick for your liking, don’t worry! Just add a splash more of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Dish out your amazing Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately. Enjoy the amazing flavors!

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Pro Tips for the Best Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this dish truly shine. Follow these tips for an unforgettable meal!

Always use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. The oil itself adds incredible flavor and richness to the sauce, so don’t toss it!
Don’t be afraid to use the reserved pasta water. It’s starchy and helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a beautiful emulsion.
Toast your garlic and red pepper flakes gently. Burning them will make the whole dish bitter, so keep the heat medium and watch closely.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. Pasta dishes often need a good pinch of salt and pepper to bring out all the flavors.

What’s the secret to perfect Sun Dried Tomato Pasta?

The real secret to a perfect pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic is building layers of flavor. Sautéing the garlic and red pepper flakes first, then softening the tomatoes in the oil, and finally using that starchy pasta water to create a velvety sauce are key techniques.

Can I make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce base with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and to prevent it from getting clumpy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sun Dried Tomato Pasta?

A common pitfall is overcooking the garlic, which makes it bitter. Also, avoid adding too much liquid at once; start with the recommended amount of pasta water or broth and add more only if needed to reach the desired sauce consistency.

Best Ways to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

This versatile pasta dish is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or can be easily elevated for guests.

For a hearty and complete meal, I love serving this sun-dried tomato pasta with chicken. Grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts, thinly sliced, add a wonderful protein boost.
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce. Think mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon-based dressing.
Crusty bread is a must for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser!

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Nutrition Facts for Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Here are the estimated nutritional values for one serving of this delightful Sun Dried Tomato Pasta. Understanding the sun-dried tomato pasta calories can help you incorporate it into your meal plan.

Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 400mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

I love making a big batch of this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta because it makes for fantastic leftovers, perfect for a quick sun-dried tomato pasta for dinner later in the week. Once it’s cooled down a bit from serving, transfer any remaining pasta into an airtight container. It should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, I find the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan with the pasta, cover it, and heat over low heat until warmed through. This helps revive the sauce and keeps the pasta from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but stir it halfway through for even heating. It’s almost as good as the first time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

What is sun-dried tomato pasta?

Sun-dried tomato pasta is a delicious dish where pasta is coated in a flavorful sauce made from, you guessed it, sun-dried tomatoes! These tomatoes are dried to intensify their natural sweetness and flavor, creating a rich, tangy, and slightly chewy element that pairs wonderfully with pasta and other ingredients like garlic and basil.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

While you can use fresh tomatoes, it will result in a different flavor profile. For a true sun-dried tomato pasta experience, I really recommend sticking with the sun-dried variety, especially those packed in oil, as they bring a concentrated sweetness and depth of flavor that fresh tomatoes can’t replicate in this specific dish.

How do I make sun-dried tomato pasta vegetarian or vegan?

To make this a fantastic vegetarian sun-dried tomato pasta, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegetarian Parmesan alternative. For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan and consider adding a tablespoon or two of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or use your favorite vegan shredded cheese. Ensure your broth is also vegetable-based.

What kind of pasta works best for sun-dried tomato pasta?

I find that pastas with ridges or twists, like penne, fusilli, or rotini, are ideal because they really catch and hold onto that yummy sun-dried tomato pasta sauce. Spaghetti or linguine also work well, but you might need to toss them a bit more to ensure every strand is coated in the sauce.

Variations of Sun Dried Tomato Pasta You Can Try

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta recipe is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting with it! Here are a few of my favorite ways to switch things up and explore different flavors and dietary needs.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: For an extra decadent dish, stir in about ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the Parmesan cheese in Step 6. This creates a wonderfully rich and comforting sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake: After tossing the pasta with the sauce and cheese, transfer it to a baking dish. Top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. It’s a delightful twist for a cozy dinner.
Vegetarian Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Delight: This recipe is already a great base for a vegetarian sun-dried tomato pasta. To make it even more satisfying, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers in Step 5 for extra texture and flavor.
Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: If you love a bit of heat, double the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper when you sauté the garlic. This amps up the kick for a truly zesty experience.