Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Name: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne or your favorite pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making creamy sun dried tomato pasta for a quick and delicious meal. The combination of rich cream, tangy sun dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta never fails to impress. It’s a dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. I like to add a sprinkle of fresh basil and a dash of parmesan for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:05:36.117Z

When I first experimented with creamy sun dried tomato pasta, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform into a gourmet dish. The sweetness of the sun dried tomatoes, combined with the creaminess of the sauce, creates a delightful balance that keeps me coming back for more. After several trials, I found that incorporating a splash of pasta water into the sauce elevated the flavor and kept everything silky smooth.

I also love how versatile this dish is. You can easily add grilled chicken, spinach, or even mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. The possibilities are endless, and each variation tastes incredible. It’s a reliable recipe that never fails to please my family and friends!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta
Savory sun dried tomatoes that add depth of flavor
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

The heavy cream in this recipe is crucial for achieving the rich, velvety texture that makes this pasta sauce truly indulgent. Opting for a higher fat content, such as heavy cream, ensures that the sauce doesn't become watery when mixed with the pasta. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will have a thinner consistency and may require some extra cheese to maintain the creamy quality.

Sun dried tomatoes not only contribute their unique tangy flavor but also provide a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the pasta. When selecting sun dried tomatoes, consider using those packed in oil; they tend to be more flavorful and easier to slice than the dry, store-bought varieties. For a bit of sweetness, you can also rehydrate dry sun dried tomatoes in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes before chopping and adding them to the sauce.

Perfecting Your Sauce Technique

When sautéing the garlic in your skillet, be careful not to overcook it. Garlic can turn bitter if it becomes browned too much, so aim for just a minute of cooking until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. This timing will ensure that the garlic flavor is prominent without overwhelming the dish. Use a wide skillet for even heat distribution, which helps the sauce emulsify properly with the pasta later.

As you combine the cream and parmesan, whisk continuously as this will prevent the cheese from clumping and ensure a smooth sauce. Once it has thickened slightly, be sure to adjust seasoning! Taste the sauce after it simmers; sometimes just a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon can enhance the flavors, balancing the richness of the cream and the depth of the tomatoes.

Ingredients

Pasta

12 ounces penne or your favorite pasta

Creamy Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to reserve some pasta water to achieve the desired sauce consistency.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

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

Combine Everything

Pour in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat evenly, adding pasta water as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and more parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy deliciousness!

This dish is best served hot and can be easily reheated if you have leftovers.

Pro Tips

For a little extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you can't find sun dried tomatoes, you can also use roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy sun dried tomato pasta can be prepared ahead of time, making it even more convenient for busy weeknights. To do this, cook the pasta and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce over low heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water, and toss in the pasta until warmed through.

For those who want to batch cook, this dish freezes well too. After preparing it, let the pasta cool completely in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

Variations You Can Try

Feel free to customize the flavor of your creamy sun dried tomato pasta by adding protein or vegetables. Grilled chicken or shrimp can be a great addition for a heartier meal. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, throw in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms as you prepare the sauce to add both nutrition and flavor. These ingredients not only boost the dish's appeal but make it a more balanced meal.

You might also experiment with different cheeses beyond parmesan; for example, a smoked gouda or a bit of feta can bring a unique twist to the flavor profile. If you're feeling adventurous, a touch of red pepper flakes added during the sauce preparation can introduce a small kick, waking up the dish and making it exceptional.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just be mindful of the cooking time.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian as is, but if you wish to make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this pasta?

While it's best fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. Just make sure to cool everything before freezing.