This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a tasty dish that combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with a smooth, cheesy sauce. It’s quick and super satisfying!
Every bite feels like a warm hug, and the best part? You can whip it up in no time! I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or fettuccine for this dish. They hold the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, you can easily swap for your favorite gluten-free pasta or even a whole grain variety for a heartier option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Choose oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a more robust flavor and moisture. If you don’t have them, regular dried tomatoes can also work—just soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes first to rehydrate.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk,though the sauce might be less creamy. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream could be great substitutes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a nice alternative. For a vegan version, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
The key to a perfect creamy sauce is heating the heavy cream gently. Here’s how to do it:
- After sautéing the onions and garlic, keep the heat medium to prevent burning.
- Pour in the cream slowly while stirring, and let it come to a gentle simmer. This helps it thicken nicely without curdling.
- Be patient as the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. It will get nice and luscious!
Remember to combine everything off the heat to keep that creamy texture intact when you add the pasta!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes cooking the pasta, and another 10 minutes preparing the creamy sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick and delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its lovely aroma.
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and allow them to cook for about 2 minutes. This step helps to enhance the flavors and makes your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. This will give it that luscious, creamy texture we love!
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Now it’s time to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it melts completely and the sauce becomes rich and creamy. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it all together until the pasta is well coated in that wonderful creamy sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creamy sun-dried tomato pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are great choices, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian since it uses no meat. Just ensure that your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet for a fully vegetarian dish. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, if you want to enhance the flavors further!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if it seems too thick.
Can I Freeze This Pasta Dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the creamy sun-dried tomato pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should last for up to 2 months! To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove, adding a bit of cream as needed to restore creaminess.
