Samantha Few dishes deliver the comfort and flavor punch that a hearty bowl of creamy sun-dried tomato pasta can. With its luxurious sauce, bold sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is the perfect balance of richness and zest. If you love meals that come together quickly without sacrificing flavor, this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.
Imagine gathering your family around the table to a dish that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. The vibrant tomatoes, the velvety sauce clinging to every bite of pasta, and the fresh aroma of herbs all promise an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a special solo meal, this pasta brings restaurant-quality taste right into your own kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this recipe and how to make it perfectly every time.
Recipe Details
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Total Calories: Approximately 550 calories per serving
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Quick and Satisfying
You can have a luxurious meal on the table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade.
Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
Most of the ingredients are likely already sitting in your pantry or fridge, yet they come together to create something spectacular.
Versatile and Customizable
Want to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or extra vegetables? This pasta is a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.
Comfort in Every Bite
The creamy sauce combined with tangy sun-dried tomatoes hits all the right notes of savory, rich, and slightly sweet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Extra Parmesan, for serving
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 3: Cook the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 2–3 minutes. They will start to soften and release even more flavor into the oil.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat slightly. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce, creating a silky texture.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Add dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will loosen it up perfectly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat. Top your creamy sun-dried tomato pasta with freshly chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Presentation Tips
Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color.
Perfect Pairings
- Bread: A side of crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette
- Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Drink: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon
Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for maximum flavor. Real Parmesan cheese (grated fresh) makes a huge difference in the sauce’s creaminess.
Adjust the Creaminess
If you want a lighter sauce, swap out half of the heavy cream for whole milk or vegetable broth.
Make It Ahead
Prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Tasty Variations
Add Some Protein
- Grilled chicken breast slices
- Sautéed shrimp
- Crispy pancetta or bacon bits
Extra Veggie Boost
- Fresh baby spinach folded into the sauce
- Roasted bell peppers or zucchini
- Sliced mushrooms sautéed with the garlic
Herb Swaps
Mix up the herbs by using thyme, basil, rosemary, or parsley instead of oregano.
Freezing and Storage Tips
Refrigerate Properly
Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freeze for Future Meals
Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove with added cream or water.
Essential Tools for the Recipe
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining
- Large skillet for the sauce
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute another type of pasta?
Yes! Use any pasta you like, from spaghetti to rigatoni. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work as well.
Is there a way to make it vegan?
Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use cherry tomatoes, although the flavor will be fresher and less intense. Roast them first for a deeper flavor.
How do I spice it up?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
Final Thoughts
Creamy sun-dried tomato pasta isn’t just another quick recipe—it’s a plate full of bold flavors, irresistible creaminess, and Italian-inspired comfort. From the first bite, you’ll taste the care that goes into simple ingredients coming together beautifully. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own creative twists, this pasta will earn a permanent place in your mealtime favorites.
Gather your ingredients, grab your skillet, and get ready to create something extraordinary in just 30 minutes.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A Rich and Flavorful 30-Minute Meal
Course: LunchCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes15
minutes320
kcal30
minutesThis creamy sun-dried tomato pasta recipe features tender pasta tossed in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner or date night dish ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Juice of 2 large lemons (about 6 tablespoons), plus 1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic
- Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Finish the Sauce
- Stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley. For an extra luxurious sauce, whisk in a tablespoon of butter until melted and fully incorporated.
- Return the Chicken
- Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with lemon slices and more parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and saucy.
Notes
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