This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a real treat! With tangy tomatoes and a rich sauce, it’s both comforting and delicious. Who could resist that combination?
Every bite is like a warm hug for your taste buds. I love making it when I want something quick yet fancy for dinner. Just boil, mix, and enjoy your new favorite dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne works great for this recipe, but you can swap it for any pasta you love, like fusilli or farfalle. Whole wheat pasta is a good option if you’re looking for something healthier.
Heavy Cream: I enjoy using heavy cream for its richness, but if you want a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra flavor. If you’re out, sun-dried tomato paste can also work, just adjust the amount to your taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. For a substitute, you might try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too, but adjust based on your preference.
How Do I Make the Cream Sauce Just Right?
Making the cream sauce is key to this dish! Start by sautéing the garlic gently to avoid burning. Then, when adding the cream, heat it slowly to prevent it from curdling. Stir continuously as you add the Parmesan to keep the sauce smooth.
- After simmering the cream, add cheese gradually. This helps it melt evenly.
- If the sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add some pasta water, a little at a time.
Once the pasta is added, mix well to coat everything with that delicious sauce. Enjoy creating your mouthwatering pasta dish!
How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil for added flavor)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total, with about 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add in the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but not hard). When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring often until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, toss the chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Cook them together with the garlic for another 2-3 minutes until they’re warmed through and flavorful.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This means you should see small bubbles rising but not a full boil.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring the sauce until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. If it’s too thick, don’t worry—just add a splash of the pasta cooking water to thin it out to your liking.
6. Season the Sauce:
Now, season your sauce with red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), salt, and pepper. Taste it to make sure the flavor is perfect for you!
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, and toss everything together until the pasta is completely coated in that delicious creamy sauce.
8. Serve it Up:
It’s time to eat! Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan as desired. Enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type’s package instructions to ensure it’s cooked al dente!
How Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken it slightly. Keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit less rich, so you might want to add a touch more cheese for flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toss it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily boost the nutrition by adding vegetables! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini are great choices. If using fresh spinach, add it just before the pasta to wilt it slightly. For firmer veggies, sauté them along with the garlic.
