Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 ounces bow tie pasta; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I have always adored the wonderful flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauces, and this Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce is a perfect celebration of those tastes. The pasta's unique shape holds the rich sauce beautifully, creating a delightful bite with every forkful. This dish comes together quickly and easily, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners. I love how the vibrant colors and flavors brighten up the table, making even the simplest meals feel special.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:09:35.281Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was blown away by how the creamy sauce combined beautifully with the undeniably rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. It was a revelation! I learned that the key to this dish is to let the sun-dried tomatoes simmer gently to release their oils, which adds depth and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.

Another great tip is to cook the bow tie pasta until it's al dente, ensuring it pairs perfectly with the luscious sauce. This dish is not just about taste; it also presents beautifully, with a touch of fresh basil for color. Trust me, it’s a showstopper!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, dreamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
Delectable bursts of flavor from sun-dried tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any night

The Magic of Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are the star ingredient in this dish, bringing their intense flavor and chewy texture. Their concentrated sweetness adds a delightful depth to the creamy sauce. When choosing sun-dried tomatoes, consider using the oil-packed variety for an added richness. The oil not only enhances the flavor but can also be used in the sautéing step for extra taste. If you prefer a less intense flavor, you can soak dried tomatoes in hot water for 20 minutes to rehydrate them before adding.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creaminess of the sauce comes from the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heavy cream creates a lush, velvety consistency, while Parmesan adds umami and a slight saltiness that balances the dish. When simmering the cream, keep the heat at medium to avoid boiling; this prevents the cream from curdling and ensures a smooth sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but be prepared for a less rich flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate this dish, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp for protein. These additions not only enhance flavor but also make it more filling. If you want to introduce some greens, toss in fresh spinach or arugula just before serving. They will wilt slightly in the warm sauce, adding color and nutrition. For a bit of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes during the sauce-making step or serve it with a sprinkle on top.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

12 ounces bow tie pasta
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy masterpiece:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to thicken, about 5 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like some heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be prepared a day in advance, which makes it an excellent option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. To store, keep the pasta and sauce separate in airtight containers; this helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. The creamy sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to restore consistency if needed.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce is too thick, it's easy to salvage with some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to allow it to reduce. Ensure that your cheese is freshly grated, as pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smoothness. If you notice any lumps while stirring in the cheese, whisk it vigorously to break them up.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for larger gatherings or meal prepping. Simply increase the quantity of ingredients while maintaining the same ratios. For a more substantial meal, you can easily double the recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly, especially for the pasta, to ensure uniform cooking. As always, taste and adjust seasoning accordingly, as larger batches might require a bit more salt or cheese to achieve balanced flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well, though keep in mind cooking times may vary.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less creamy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat when ready to serve. Just be sure to add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This pasta holds up well in the fridge. Just store in an airtight container and reheat gently in the microwave.