As the aroma of garlic fills the kitchen, I find myself whisked away to a sun-drenched Italian terrace, where the vibrant flavors of creamy sun-dried tomato pasta come to life. This dish is my go-to on busy weeknights, offering a delightful escape and a quick, satisfying meal that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes. With its silky sauce and customizable toppings—think tender chicken, juicy shrimp, or fresh spinach—this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a comforting hug on a plate that even your pickiest eaters will adore. Ready to transform your dinner routine into a Mediterranean feast? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why Is This Pasta Recipe So Special?
Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can turn a few basic ingredients into a gourmet dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Customization: Want to add chicken, shrimp, or veggies? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Just toss in your favorites.
Rich Flavor: Infused with sun-dried tomatoes and creamy cheese, this dish boasts a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends, this comforting pasta dish is sure to impress.
Perfect Pairing: Serve it alongside a fresh salad and crusty bread, like in my One Pot Pasta recipe, to complete the meal!
Leftover Friendly: It keeps well in the fridge, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep or tasty leftovers for lunch.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Ingredients
Get ready to create a mouthwatering dish that comes together in no time!
For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – The base of this creamy sun dried tomato pasta, and works well with any shape you prefer!
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning your pasta water; enhances overall flavor.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich depth to the sauce; can be swapped with olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
• Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic depth that elevates the dish; consider using roasted garlic for a sweeter profile.
• All-Purpose Flour – A thickening agent for the sauce; cornstarch works as a gluten-free option if needed.
• White Wine (or Chicken Broth) – Introduces acidity and complexity; use vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic twist.
• Heavy Cream – The heart of the creaminess in this dish; coconut milk makes a lighter alternative.
• Julienned Sun Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil – Infuse vibrant flavor into the sauce; for a bolder taste, try homemade dried tomatoes.
• Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully into the sauce; feta gives a tangier alternative if preferred.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan – Adds salty umami richness; nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan twist.
• Dried Oregano – Introduces herbal notes; feel free to substitute with thyme or Italian seasoning.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For a kick of heat; omit if you prefer a milder sauce.
• Fresh Basil (chopped finely) – Brightens up the dish with fresh flavor; parsley works as a lovely substitute.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Season to taste, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
Feel free to mix in proteins or veggies to make this creamy sun dried tomato pasta even more indulgent!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of kosher salt, and bringing it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Just before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, swirling it in the pan until it’s fully melted. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will give an off taste to your creamy sun dried tomato pasta.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed garlic and whisk vigorously. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute until it develops a light golden color, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in ½ cup of white wine (or chicken broth), stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and thickens slightly, retaining the flavor from the garlic.
Step 4: Add Cream and Flavor
Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well to combine with the sauce. Next, fold in the julienned sun dried tomatoes, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and the cheese melts into a creamy, cohesive mixture.
Step 5: Combine and Adjust Seasoning
Stir in ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil into the sauce and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, gently add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the creamy sun dried tomato sauce, tossing to combine and allow the pasta to soak up the flavors. If needed, incorporate the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Plate the creamy sun dried tomato pasta while it’s hot, garnishing with additional fresh basil, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, or more red pepper flakes for an added kick. This luscious dish is best enjoyed fresh, so gather your loved ones around the table and savor every creamy bite!
What to Serve with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
There’s nothing quite like a comforting meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table, making it truly special.
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Garlic Bread: This classic pairs beautifully, offering a crunchy texture and buttery flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce and captures every last drop.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, refreshing your palate with each bite. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor!
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Grilled Chicken: Seared chicken breasts create a hearty addition, adding protein while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile. Simply season and grill them for a smoky edge.
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Roasted Vegetables: Try a medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a colorful side that brings both texture and additional nutrients, enriching the meal.
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Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc elevates this pasta dish, accentuating its creamy notes while offering a crisp contrast that refreshes the taste buds.
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Dessert: Lighten the mood with a lemon sorbet after your meal; its zesty flavor cleanses the palate, leaving everyone feeling satisfied but not overly stuffed.
Helpful Tricks for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water to adjust the thickness of your creamy sun dried tomato pasta sauce. It’s the secret to a perfect texture!
- Preheat Wisely: Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the butter and garlic. If it’s not hot enough, the garlic can take longer to brown, impacting flavor.
- Brown Proteins First: If adding chicken or shrimp, cook them separately until browned before mixing into the sauce. This adds depth to the overall flavor of your dish.
- Substitute Smartly: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients such as heavy cream for coconut milk or mozzarella for feta. These adjustments can create exciting new flavor profiles.
- Avoid Overcooking: Be mindful of the cooking time when adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach. You want them well incorporated but not overcooked!
- Taste as You Go: Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your taste. A well-seasoned creamy sun dried tomato pasta is what makes the dish sing!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta preparations are perfect for busy weeknights and meal planning! You can cook the penne pasta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing for easy assembly later. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be made up to 24 hours ahead; simply cool it, then refrigerate in a sealed container to maintain its luscious texture. To finish the dish, gently reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat before adding the cooked pasta and any desired proteins or vegetables. With these prep ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in no time, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this pasta your own with these delightful twists!
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Chicken Boost: Add chicken by browning 2 seasoned breasts before incorporating them into the sauce. It adds a heartiness that makes every bite satisfying.
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Shrimp Delight: Include shrimp by cooking half a pound until pink, then toss into the creamy mixture. The seafood brings a fresh twist to your dish.
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Spinach Addition: Stir in 1 cup of fresh baby spinach until wilted for a pop of color and nutrients. It’s a healthy addition that complements the richness beautifully.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta to cater to dietary needs while still enjoying this decadent dish. It maintains the integrity and flavor without compromise.
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Dairy-Free Twist: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that’s just as creamy. The hint of coconut adds a lovely twist to the flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Swap in fresh parsley for fresh basil or try adding thyme for a different herbal note that brightens up the dish in a refreshing way.
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Spice Up the Heat: For an extra kick, increase the red pepper flakes or incorporate sliced jalapeños. It’s perfect for those who love an exciting heat level!
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Cheesy Variation: Switch out mozzarella for crumbled feta for a tangier taste that complements the sun-dried tomatoes nicely. It provides a delightful depth to the overall flavor.
Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting classic or ready to experiment with new flavors, this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta can easily adapt to your cravings! Serve it alongside a fresh salad and a crusty bread inspired by my Southern Spaghetti Bake for a complete meal experience.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the creamy sun dried tomato pasta into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat from the fridge on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, and adding extra cream or pasta water as needed for a smooth texture.
Avoid Room Temperature: For food safety, do not leave creamy sun dried tomato pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for plump, soft sun-dried tomatoes that are packed in oil. They should be vibrant in color with no dark spots or signs of mold. If using dried tomatoes, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes to soften before adding to your dish.
How should I store leftover creamy sun dried tomato pasta?
Refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze creamy sun dried tomato pasta?
Yes, you can! Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply move it to the fridge overnight. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add extra cream or pasta water as needed to keep it smooth and creamy.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Aim for a silky, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the penne.
Are there any dietary considerations for this pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. For those who are gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free penne. If you’re looking for plant-based options, use olive oil instead of butter, coconut milk in place of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast for the cheese. Remember to always check labels for allergens if serving to guests.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta: A 20-Minute Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of kosher salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set pasta aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed garlic and whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until it gains a light golden color. Gradually pour in ½ cup of white wine (or chicken broth), stirring until mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, and stir to combine. Fold in the julienned sun dried tomatoes, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens and cheese melts into a creamy mixture.
- Stir in ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Gently add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine and allowing the pasta to soak up the flavors, using reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Plate the creamy sun dried tomato pasta while hot, garnishing with additional fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, or more red pepper flakes for added kick. Enjoy fresh for the best taste!
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