Quick Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

If you love pasta that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t take hours to make, this Quick Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is going to become your new go-to. Rich, savory, and bursting with the sweet, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes, it’s comfort food elevated. Imagine al dente rigatoni coated in a creamy, slightly smoky sauce, dotted with toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, and melty mozzarella if you’re feeling indulgent. The aroma of garlic, onion, and sun-dried tomatoes sizzling in oil will make your kitchen smell like a cozy Italian trattoria—trust me, this one’s irresistible.

Recipe Origin:

This recipe draws inspiration from Italian classic flavors, simplified for a quick weeknight meal. Sun-dried tomatoes add an intense, concentrated flavor, while smoked paprika and oregano bring warmth and depth. It’s a creamy, herb-forward pasta that tastes gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something impressive but easy.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Saucepan for pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

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Why You’ll Love Quick Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

This pasta isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it’s about delivering bold flavors with minimal effort. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for a weekday dinner, a quick lunch, or even a light dinner party dish. Dress it up with mozzarella or extra basil for a fancier presentation.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples plus a few fresh ingredients. Sun-dried tomatoes might seem fancy, but they go a long way in flavor, making a little really go a long way.

Quick and Easy: From start to finish in under 30 minutes. Even beginner cooks can make it taste restaurant-quality.

Customizable: Swap rigatoni for penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Crowd-Pleasing: The creamy tomato flavor, garlic aroma, and fresh herbs make it universally loved—kids, teens, adults, everyone will be reaching for seconds.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:

• Toast pine nuts gently in a dry pan to release their nutty aroma.
• Reserve a little pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
• Add cream cheese gradually to avoid lumps.
• Chop basil just before serving to preserve its bright color and flavor.

Ingredients in Quick Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Here’s the breakdown of what makes this pasta so flavorful:

White Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, forming a fragrant base for the sauce.

Garlic Cloves: Essential for that savory, aromatic punch. Mince finely for an even distribution of flavor.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The heart of this recipe. Concentrated, tangy, and rich, they bring umami and depth to the sauce.

Sun-Dried Tomato Oil: Packed with flavor, this oil helps sauté ingredients and infuse the pasta with richness.

Tomato Paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.

Smoked Paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky warmth that elevates the pasta’s flavor.

Dried Oregano: Classic Italian herb that complements tomatoes and garlic perfectly.

Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other ingredients.

Pine Nuts: Toasted for a nutty crunch, adding texture and richness to every bite.

Vegetable Stock: Forms the liquid base for the creamy sauce and helps infuse flavor into the pasta.

Lighter Cream Cheese: Provides creaminess and smooth texture without being overly heavy.

Rigatoni Pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and bits of sun-dried tomatoes.

Fresh Basil Leaves: Bright, aromatic, and slightly sweet, adding freshness to the dish.

Optional Fresh Mozzarella: Adds gooey, melty richness for extra indulgence.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking and bring this flavorful pasta to life:

Preheat Your Equipment: Boil water in a large saucepan with a pinch of salt for the rigatoni. Preheating ensures the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce better.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the sun-dried tomato oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. The aroma should immediately fill your kitchen.

Build the Sauce: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.

Toast Pine Nuts: In a small dry pan, toast the pine nuts until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside for garnish.

Add Liquid & Creaminess: Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add cream cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a little pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce.

Combine Pasta & Sauce: Drain pasta and add to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Add Fresh Herbs & Cheese: Stir in fresh basil and, if using, torn pieces of mozzarella. Let it sit a minute so the cheese melts slightly.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate immediately, garnish with toasted pine nuts, and maybe a few extra basil leaves. Each bite is a creamy, flavorful delight.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 420 (approximate)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

How to Serve Quick Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Weeknight Dinner: Serve as-is for a fast, flavorful dinner. Pair with garlic bread or a green salad.

Lunch Box Treat: This pasta holds up well for leftovers, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Dinner Party: Add extra fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or some grated Parmesan for a polished presentation.

Side Dish Option: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Vegetarian Meal: This pasta shines on its own with the pine nuts, creaminess, and aromatic herbs.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Slice onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in advance. Keep them in the fridge until ready to cook.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but fresh basil and mozzarella are best added after thawing and reheating.
• Double the Batch: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Variations to Try

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
• Cheese Variations: Swap cream cheese for mascarpone or ricotta for a richer flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes when sautéing garlic for heat.

Additional Tips

• Even Cooking: Stir frequently when adding cream cheese to prevent clumping.
• Perfect Texture: Don’t overcook rigatoni—it should be al dente to hold the sauce well.
• Garnish Flair: Top with extra pine nuts or fresh basil just before serving for a visually appealing dish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular oil instead of sun-dried tomato oil?
A1: Yes, olive oil works fine, but the sun-dried tomato oil adds extra depth and flavor.

Q2: Can I make this pasta gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! Use gluten-free rigatoni, and the sauce will taste just as good.

Q3: Can I make it vegan?
A3: Swap cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and omit mozzarella.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Q5: Can I freeze this pasta?
A5: Yes, but add fresh basil and cheese after thawing for best results.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes, use a larger skillet and pan for even cooking.

Q7: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
A7: You can, but the concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes is key to this recipe’s depth.

Q8: Is this kid-friendly?
A8: Totally! Mild, creamy, and flavorful without being too spicy.

Q9: Can I make this ahead of time?
A9: Yes! Make the sauce ahead, store separately from pasta, and combine when ready to serve.

Q10: Can I add more herbs?
A10: Absolutely! Parsley, thyme, or a little oregano can enhance the flavor further.

Conclusion

Quick Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal: fast, flavorful, and packed with savory, tangy, and creamy notes. The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts with al dente rigatoni makes every bite delightful. Whether you serve it for a busy weekday dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Pull it together in under 30 minutes, toss in some fresh basil, and enjoy a homemade pasta dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet Italian kitchen.

See how to prepare this creamy pasta with sun-dried tomatoes in just minutes: