This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy nights. The rich sauce combines creamy goodness with tangy sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up! Just cook the pasta, mix in the sauce, and voilà! It’s like a hug in a bowl. I always added a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yum! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for this dish as it holds the creamy sauce well. However, you can swap it with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I recommend using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for their rich flavor. If those aren’t available, just soak dry sun-dried tomatoes in warm water for 15-20 minutes before using.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice taste. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor, but if you don’t have any, dried basil works in a pinch (about a teaspoon). Just add it earlier in the cooking process.
How Do You Make Sure the Sauce is Creamy and Smooth?
A smooth, creamy sauce is essential for this dish. Here are my tips:
- Start by sautéing the garlic gently to avoid burning it, which can make the sauce bitter.
- When you add the cream, keep the heat on medium-low. This prevents it from boiling too quickly and curdling.
- Stir continuously after adding Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted for that silky texture.
- If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little pasta water, which helps create a smooth consistency and enhance flavor.
Easy Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed or rehydrated if dry)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole leaves for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes preparing the creamy sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as that could make it bitter.
3. Adding Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook them for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Creating the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the cream heat through and slightly thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
5. Mixing in the Parmesan:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes wonderfully creamy. If you’re using the optional red pepper flakes for some heat, add them now.
6. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked penne directly into the skillet and toss everything together well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
7. Finishing Touches:
Add the chopped fresh basil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything again to combine well, making sure all the pasta is evenly coated.
8. Serving:
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh basil leaves for a delightful presentation. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish!
This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is not just fast to make, but it’s also bursting with flavor! Perfect for those cozy nights or when you just want something comforting. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While penne is great for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for whatever pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! To keep it meat-free, just ensure that the sun-dried tomatoes and any other ingredients (like the cheese) align with your dietary preferences, especially if you prefer organic or specific brands.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms would make excellent additions. Just cook the protein separately, then mix it into the pasta before serving for a heartier meal!
