Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Name: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of your choice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Table Favorites

I absolutely adore this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta because it combines rich flavors with a quick and easy preparation. Whether I’m rushing through a weekday dinner or hosting friends for a cozy evening, this dish always impresses. The creamy sauce, accented with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creates a comforting meal that feels gourmet without demanding hours of my time. Each bite leaves me longing for more, making it a regular favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:09:36.318Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The secret lies in using quality sun-dried tomatoes and cream, which blend beautifully to create a luxurious sauce. I remember the first time I prepared it for friends; they couldn't believe I made it in just 35 minutes!

One of my favorite tips is to reserve some pasta water before draining the noodles. Adding a splash of this starchy water to the sauce helps it adhere better to the pasta, resulting in a beautifully creamy texture. Trust me, this little detail makes a big difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that's perfect for any occasion
Bursting with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and herbs
Quick and easy to make, ideal for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta can significantly affect the texture and flavor of this dish. I recommend using a shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or fusilli. These shapes trap the creamy sauce and provide a satisfying bite. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, there are excellent alternatives made from chickpeas or lentils that will work wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

The sun-dried tomatoes are the star of this recipe, providing intense flavor and a chewy texture. Look for tomatoes packed in oil, as they add richness to the dish. If you can only find dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes before using. This will help rehydrate them and enhance their flavor intensity in the sauce.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking pasta to al dente is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in this dish. This means the pasta should be firm when bitten—chewy but not hard. As you boil the pasta, keep a close eye on it and taste a piece a minute or two before the package timing suggests. This will ensure you achieve the desired consistency.

When preparing the sauce, don't rush the sautéing of the garlic. It should become fragrant and lightly golden, which usually takes about one minute. A common mistake is to overcook the garlic, leading to a bitter taste that can overpower the dish. If you notice it browning too quickly, lower the heat immediately to preserve that pleasant aroma.

Perfect Serving Suggestions

For an elevated presentation, consider serving this creamy pasta in a shallow bowl, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprig of fresh basil. You can also add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added richness. This finishing touch not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.

Should you have leftovers, this pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce, as it will thicken in the fridge. Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through and creamy once again.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta of your choice
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Mix with Pasta

Incorporate the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic, allowing it to reduce for a couple of minutes before adding the cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider substituting half and half for some of the heavy cream. This maintains a creamy texture while reducing fat content. Alternatively, for a vegan version, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast to replicate the creaminess and cheesy flavor.

For a pop of color and added nutrition, feel free to incorporate spinach or kale into the sauce. Simply stir in 2 cups of fresh greens after adding the cream, allowing them to wilt while the sauce simmers for a couple of minutes. This not only enhances the dish nutritionally but adds a lovely green hue.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easily scales up for larger gatherings. Simply double the ingredients while using a wider pot to ensure even cooking. Just remember to allow for a little extra time when preparing, as a larger quantity might take longer to heat through, especially when making the sauce.

If you want to make a smaller portion, this recipe is also forgiving. Halving the ingredients works beautifully, but ensure you reserve enough pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency, which can be crucial for getting the creaminess just right.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free options.

→ Is there a way to lighten the dish?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less cheese to reduce calories and fat content.

→ Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and then cook the pasta just before serving.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make this dish even heartier.