If you are on the lookout for a luscious, comforting dish that elegantly combines the tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes with rich, velvety cream, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. It’s one of those recipes that feels both indulgent and simple, delivering a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or aiming to impress guests, this pasta offers an irresistible blend of savory, creamy, and herbaceous notes that promise to become a fast favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is key to delivering those bold yet balanced flavors. Each item plays a crucial role, from the pasta that provides the hearty base, to the sun-dried tomatoes which bring vibrant color and tang, and the cream and cheese that create that unforgettable smoothness.
- 12 oz pasta: Penne or fettuccine works perfectly to hold the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A good quality oil brings out the best in the sun-dried tomatoes when sautéed.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes: These packed-in-oil tomatoes add a concentrated sweet-tart flavor that’s the star of the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic introduces an aromatic depth that enhances every other ingredient.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This ingredient is essential for creating that rich, luscious texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds extra savory moisture and lightens the cream slightly for perfect consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle kick to awaken your palate if you enjoy a touch of heat.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season and elevate all the other flavors naturally.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan melts into the sauce, lending a nutty, salty complexity that binds everything together.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: Freshly chopped basil brings a fragrant brightness and beautiful green contrast.
- Extra Parmesan and basil for garnish: These finishing touches add both flavor and visual appeal when serving.
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your chosen pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures a perfect firm bite that won’t get lost beneath the luscious sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Tomatoes and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, allowing the oil to carry the vibrant flavor of the sun-dried tomatoes and the punchy aroma of garlic to infuse into every corner of your pan.
Step 3: Develop the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook slowly for 3 to 4 minutes to meld the flavors and allow the sauce to thicken ever so slightly, creating a rich and inviting base for your pasta.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Add red pepper flakes if you want to bring a little heat, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust these seasonings carefully to complement the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and the creamy richness for a harmonious taste experience.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce and stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce turns creamy, smooth, and decadently cheesy. This step really takes the texture to a luxurious new level.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing thoroughly to ensure every strand or piece is coated with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Let it cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors unite and everything heats through perfectly.
Step 7: Add Fresh Basil
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves, reserving some for garnish. The basil adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness that balances the creamy and tangy elements so beautifully.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta straight from the pan while deliciously hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves to impress and invite smiles around the table.
How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Extra Parmesan cheese and whole basil leaves are classic garnishes that not only enhance the appearance but add bursts of flavor and aroma. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also uplift the presentation and taste with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness and adds freshness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia on the side makes the meal feel even more comforting and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta in shallow bowls to showcase its creamy texture and vibrant colors, or try layering it in a clear glass dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs for an elegant touch. For a fun twist, stuff cooked pasta shells with this sauce mixture and bake them lightly for a crispy top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy texture, although the pasta may absorb some sauce, so a little reheating with added cream or broth helps revive it.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to one month. Freeze it in a well-sealed container to avoid freezer burn, but be aware that the cream-based sauce might separate slightly upon thawing. Reheat gently and stir well to restore its smoothness.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta over low heat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream, broth, or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to keep the sauce silky and evenly heated through.
FAQs
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes that are dry-packed instead of oil-packed?
Yes, you can, but dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes tend to be more concentrated and chewy. Soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before using to rehydrate and soften them for the best texture in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. Replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy flavor while making it vegan-friendly.
What pasta shape works best for this recipe?
Penne, fettuccine, or even rigatoni are fantastic choices because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use whatever you have on hand—the sauce is versatile and clings nicely to most pasta types.
Can I add protein to this pasta dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu cubes make excellent additions. Adding protein turns this lovely side or main into a hearty, balanced meal.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that gently complements the creaminess without overpowering it. If you prefer no spice, simply omit them, and the dish will still burst with plenty of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to make me smile, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat. Its perfect balance of creamy richness, tangy tomatoes, and fresh herbs is comforting yet elegant. I really hope you give it a try soon, as it might just become your go-to recipe whenever you crave something truly delicious and satisfying.
Print
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a rich and flavorful dish combining al dente pasta with a luscious sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced by fresh basil and subtle heat from red pepper flakes, this meal is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (such as penne or fettuccine)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup (150g) sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh basil leaves, chopped
Garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Sauté sun-dried tomatoes and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Season the sauce: Add red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat every piece of pasta with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat until heated through.
- Add fresh basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, reserving some leaves for garnish to preserve their vibrant color and flavor.
- Serve: Plate the pasta hot, garnishing with more grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves to elevate presentation and aroma.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
