Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta – A Delicious & Easy Dinner

Introduction

If you’re looking for a flavorful, creamy, and easy-to-make tomato pasta recipe, this sun-dried tomato pasta is the perfect choice. With rich sun-dried tomatoes, a velvety sauce, and tender pasta, this dish is packed with bold flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish for guests, this pasta dinner recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, concentrated tomato flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic, cream, and parmesan. This dish is an excellent option for meatless meals, making it ideal for vegetarians or anyone looking for a satisfying pasta without meat. It’s also highly versatile—you can serve it as is or add extras like tortellini, chicken, or shrimp for a heartier dish.

If you love good eat meals that are simple yet packed with flavor, this sun-dried tomato pasta is a must-try. From its creamy texture to the rich umami of sun-dried tomatoes, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Let’s dive into this delicious dish and learn how to make it step by step!

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Why You’ll Love This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

There are plenty of reasons why this tomato pasta recipe deserves a spot on your weekly dinner menu:

• Easy to make – It comes together in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
• Rich and creamy – The sauce is luscious, coating every strand of pasta beautifully.
• Packed with flavor – The intense taste of sun-dried tomatoes elevates the dish.
• Versatile – Works great with any pasta, including tortellini, spaghetti, or penne.
• Great for meatless meals – It’s satisfying and filling without any meat.
• Perfect for meal prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this pasta dinner recipe will impress with its bold flavors and creamy texture.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

To make this creamy and flavorful sun-dried tomato pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or tortellini)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have these kitchen tools:

• Large pot – For cooking the pasta.
• Skillet or saucepan – To prepare the creamy tomato sauce.
• Strainer – To drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce.
• Cheese grater – For freshly grating parmesan cheese.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, stirring for another minute to release their flavors.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with extra parmesan cheese on top.

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Tips for the Best Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

• Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes – Those packed in oil are more flavorful and tender.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente to hold up to the creamy sauce.
• Save pasta water – This helps loosen the sauce while keeping it creamy.
• Adjust spice levels – Add more red pepper flakes for heat or omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Use freshly grated parmesan – Pre-packaged cheese won’t melt as smoothly.

Variations and Substitutions

This tomato pasta recipe is incredibly flexible. Try these variations:

• Tortellini Version – Swap regular pasta for cheese or spinach tortellini for a richer dish.
• Protein Additions – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sausage for extra heartiness.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
• Veggie Boost – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using dry sun-dried tomatoes without rehydrating – If using dry-packed tomatoes, soak them in warm water before using.
• Overcooking the sauce – Keep an eye on it; over-reducing will make it too thick.
• Not seasoning enough – Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and extra parmesan.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

What to Serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

This pasta dinner recipe pairs well with:

• Garlic bread – For soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Roasted vegetables – Like zucchini or asparagus for added nutrition.
• Side salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing complements the richness.

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FAQs About Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
A: Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a more intense, concentrated flavor. Fresh tomatoes will create a lighter sauce.

Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A: Let it simmer longer, or add more parmesan cheese to thicken it naturally.

Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes! Use coconut milk instead of cream, dairy-free cheese, and vegetable broth.

Conclusion

This sun-dried tomato pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a tomato pasta recipe that’s easy, a satisfying meatless meal, or a new twist on pasta dinner recipes, this dish checks all the boxes. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes makes every bite a good eat that’s both comforting and gourmet. Try it today and let us know what you think!

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