Ingredients
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken Stock or Bone Broth: 2 cups
- Alternative: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Half and Half or Whole Milk: 1/2 cup (room temperature)
- Alternative: For a lighter version, you can use any unsweetened plant-based milk.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: 1 jar (8 oz), oil drained
- Tip: Reserve a bit of the oil if you want an extra kick of flavor.
- Angel Hair Pasta: 8 oz
- Alternative: Spaghetti or bucatini can be used instead. Note that these might require a slightly longer cooking time to reach al dente.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/3 cup, grated
- Optional – Cream Cheese: 2 tablespoons, softened (for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Prep Your Skillet:
Begin by placing a large skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pan. Allow the butter to melt completely, and let the garlic sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn—this is key for achieving a rich, savory base. - Build the Flavor Base:
Once the garlic is aromatic, pour in 2 cups of chicken stock (or your chosen broth). Add your drained 8 oz jar of sun-dried tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning, cracked black pepper, and salt. If you’re using red pepper flakes for an extra kick, add them now. Stir gently to combine all these flavors. - Incorporate the Creaminess:
Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of half and half (or whole milk) into the skillet. Stir continuously as you do this to ensure the liquid blends seamlessly with the stock and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil—this will form the flavorful sauce that will envelop your pasta. - Add the Pasta:
Now, it’s time to introduce the star of the show—the pasta. Lay 8 oz of angel hair pasta into the skillet. Let it sit undisturbed for about 30 seconds so that it begins to soften and bend, making it easier to submerge fully into the liquid. Carefully maneuver the pasta into the sauce without breaking it. It’s perfectly fine if a few strands don’t immediately sink; they will soften as the dish continues to cook. - Cook the Pasta:
Allow the pasta to cook in the simmering liquid for about 5 minutes. During this time, the pasta will absorb the rich flavors of the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. After 5 minutes, reduce the heat to a low simmer. If you’re opting for extra creaminess, now is the moment to add 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese. Stir it in until it melts completely, enhancing the sauce’s texture. - Finish to Perfection:
Continue cooking the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture—tender with a slight bite in the center. This usually takes just a few more minutes. Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, sprinkle 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Taste the dish and add a bit more salt and pepper if necessary. If you notice that the pasta has absorbed too much liquid and the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more chicken stock or half and half to achieve the desired consistency.
Notes
- Ingredient Prep:
Always have all your ingredients measured and prepped before you start cooking. This “mise en place” practice not only makes the process smoother but also minimizes the risk of missing an ingredient. - Temperature Control:
Keeping the heat at medium-low is essential in this recipe. High heat can cause the garlic to burn, turning it bitter. A gentle, controlled heat ensures that your butter and garlic create a perfect base. - Pasta Submersion:
When adding the pasta, be gentle. Angel hair pasta is delicate, and you don’t want to break it into too many pieces. If using sturdier pasta types like spaghetti or bucatini, you may need to allow an extra minute or two for the pasta to cook fully. - Consistency Adjustments:
Don’t worry if the sauce seems too thick or too thin. The pasta will absorb liquid as it cooks. Keep an extra bit of chicken stock or half and half on hand to adjust the sauce consistency as needed. - Flavor Boosters:
The optional cream cheese is a great addition if you’re looking for a richer, creamier sauce. Similarly, if you love a bit of spice, the red pepper flakes can transform the dish with a subtle heat. Feel free to experiment with these optional ingredients to suit your personal taste. - Pan Selection:
Using a non-stick skillet can help prevent the pasta from sticking and make the stirring process easier. However, if you prefer a stainless-steel pan, just be sure to keep stirring to avoid any sticking or burning. - Troubleshooting Overcooked Pasta:
If you find that your pasta is absorbing too much liquid and overcooking, simply add a bit more broth to keep it in check. Always aim for that perfect “al dente” texture, as overcooked pasta can lose its charm and become mushy. - Kitchen Efficiency:
Multi-tasking in the kitchen can seem daunting. Use the time while the pasta cooks to prepare any complementary sides or to clean up as you go. This not only keeps your workspace tidy but also helps you feel more in control of the process.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes