This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and a smooth texture. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of taste, making every bite special.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a quick and yummy pasta dish? I enjoy twirling the pasta around my fork while trying not to spill any sauce. It’s just fun! 😂
My favorite part is how fast it comes together. Just cook the pasta, mix in the creamy sauce, and add the sun-dried tomatoes—dinner is ready in a flash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This recipe calls for penne, which holds onto the creamy sauce well. If you don’t have penne, you can use fusilli or farfalle for a similar result. Gluten-free pasta works too if you need a gluten-free option!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor! You can use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness. If you can’t find them, try using fresh tomatoes with a bit of extra seasoning or even roasted red peppers as a substitute.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce luscious and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free dish. Just be mindful that this may slightly change the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work as great substitutes.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brightens up the dish. If you don’t have any, you can use dried basil, but remember that it’s less potent – about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Burning the Garlic?
Getting the garlic just right is key to a delicious sauce! To prevent burning, heat the oil first, then add garlic only once the oil is hot. It cooks quickly, so stir constantly for about 1 minute. If it turns brown, it will taste bitter. Here’s how to keep it perfect:
- Use medium heat, and look for that fragrant smell.
- Cook garlic until it’s golden, then add sun-dried tomatoes immediately.
- Don’t walk away! Keep stirring during this step to avoid burning.
How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 30 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This will help adjust the sauce later if needed. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to make the sauce! Take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it starts to smell amazing—just be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook the tomatoes for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re warmed through and the flavors are getting cozy. This is where your kitchen will start to smell wonderful!
4. Make it Creamy:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce looks too thick, don’t worry! Just add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Time to bring it all together! Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the creamy sauce until everything is coated. Then, stir in the chopped fresh basil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is ready to be served! Plate it up and garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you wish. Enjoy this comforting dish warm, and watch it become a new favorite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free penne can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions for the best results and adjust as needed for doneness.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just be aware that the substitution may result in a thinner sauce, so you might want to add a bit of cornstarch as a thickener or adjust with more cheese.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy texture while warming.
Can I Add Protein to This Pasta Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms make great additions to this dish. Cook your protein separately and toss it in just before serving for a hearty meal.
