Name: Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice); 1 tablespoon Olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar); 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1/3 cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred); 1/2 cup Heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; to taste Salt; to taste Black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional); to taste Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish); 1 cup Baby spinach (optional); 1 cup Grilled or shredded chicken (optional)

Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Published by Ilyas, Date :

March 23, 2025

Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a luscious and indulgent dish that combines the intense flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with the aromatic punch of garlic, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce. Tossed with your choice of pasta, this dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or for special occasions when you want something decadent yet quick. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with the bold and tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes.
The creamy sauce is rich yet light, ensuring a comforting dish without being overwhelming.
Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving a savory treat.
Highly versatile, allowing you to customize the dish with additions like grilled chicken, spinach, or mushrooms.
A crowd-pleaser suitable for cozy nights in, dinner parties, or date nights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or any variety you prefer)
Olive oil (or use the oil from your sun-dried tomato jar for added flavor)
Garlic, minced
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed tomatoes give the best flavor)
Heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter version, use milk)
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Salt to taste
Black pepper, freshly cracked
Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

Fresh spinach
Sautéed mushrooms
Grilled or shredded chicken
A splash of white wine (for deglazing the pan and adding depth of flavor)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, cook your chosen pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining—this will help to thicken and adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Once done, set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their rich flavor into the oil.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

If you’re using white wine, this is the time to deglaze the pan. Pour in a splash of white wine and allow it to simmer for a minute or two to burn off the alcohol. Next, add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Once the cream has begun to simmer, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the sauce to continue simmering gently for 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly as the cheese melts into the cream.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add your cooked pasta into the skillet and toss it to ensure that every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help the sauce cling to the pasta. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, stir in any optional additions, such as fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and sprinkle more grated Parmesan on top. Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and creamy.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, like coconut cream or oat cream, and use vegan Parmesan for a completely dairy-free dish.
Add Protein: Boost the nutritional value by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for a hearty option.
Spicy Twist: If you love a little heat, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding freshly chopped chili peppers for an extra fiery punch.
Change the Pasta: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. If you prefer a different shape, use rigatoni, spaghetti, or linguine. Each type will pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Leafy Greens: Add extra nutrition by tossing in spinach, kale, or arugula. These greens complement the creamy sauce beautifully and add a burst of color and freshness.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave. To restore the creamy texture, add a splash of cream or milk while reheating.
Freezing: Freezing this dish is not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon thawing and affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?
Yes! Simply soak the dried sun-dried tomatoes in hot water for 10–15 minutes to soften them before chopping. This will help mimic the texture of oil-packed tomatoes.
What kind of cream should I use?
Heavy cream will give you the richest, silkiest texture, but you can use half-and-half or even a milk-and-cream mix for a lighter version.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go.
Is this dish spicy?
This dish is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes or fresh chilies to suit your taste.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance, but it’s best served fresh. If storing, reheat with a bit of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.
What wine pairs well with this?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with this pasta, both in the dish and on the side.
Can I use a different cheese?
Certainly! While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.
How can I thicken the sauce more?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply allow it to simmer longer or add a little more grated cheese to the mixture.
Can I use plant-based cream?
Yes! Coconut cream or oat cream are excellent substitutes for a dairy-free option.
What’s the best pasta shape for this sauce?
Penne, fettuccine, and rigatoni work especially well, as they catch the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is the epitome of comfort food with a touch of elegance. This rich and creamy dish combines bold flavors with silky pasta, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and luxurious. Whether you’re preparing dinner for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. With the option to customize it to your taste, it’s a dish that will easily become a staple in your recipe collection.

This creamy garlic sun-dried tomato pasta is a rich, flavorful dish made with a silky sauce, tender pasta, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but indulgent enough for a dinner date at home. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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