Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Intro

There are certain recipes that feel like they belong in your weekly rotation from the very first bite, and this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is definitely one of them. It’s rich, creamy, slightly tangy, and full of deep, bold flavor that makes you pause for a second and just enjoy the moment.

I first made this dish on a quiet evening when I wanted something comforting but still a little special. I had a jar of sun-dried tomatoes sitting in my pantry, along with garlic, cream, and pasta. What started as a simple dinner idea quickly turned into something I couldn’t stop making again and again.

As a home cook, I love recipes that come together easily but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. With ingredients like olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, cream, Parmesan cheese, and pasta, this dish delivers a creamy, savory, slightly tangy experience that feels both cozy and elegant.

What is Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?

The Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is a creamy pasta dish made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, cream, and cheese. It’s known for its rich flavor, where the sun-dried tomatoes bring a slightly sweet and tangy depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Unlike simple tomato pasta, this version has a more concentrated taste. The sun-dried tomatoes add intensity, while the cream softens everything into a smooth, velvety sauce.

It’s perfect for a quick dinner, a cozy night in, or even when you want to impress guests without too much effort.

Equipment List

Here’s everything you’ll need:

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Skillet or pan
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Card Info

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Serves: 4 servings
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Course: Main Course
  • Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Ingredients

  • 250g pasta (penne or fettuccine)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Sauté garlic

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Add sun-dried tomatoes

Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Make sauce

Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.

Step 5: Season

Add chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.

Step 6: Combine pasta

Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

This dish is creamy, flavorful, and comes together quickly. It’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want something comforting yet elegant.

Flavor Profile

This pasta has a rich, creamy base with a tangy sweetness from the sun-dried tomatoes. Garlic adds depth, while Parmesan brings a salty, nutty finish.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

  • Use pasta water for a silky sauce
  • Don’t overcook pasta
  • Use good quality Parmesan cheese

Variations to Try

  • Add grilled chicken
  • Add spinach or mushrooms
  • Use shrimp for a seafood twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking pasta
  • Using too much cream
  • Not seasoning properly

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be lighter.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use plant-based cream and cheese.

Can I reheat it?

Yes, add a splash of milk while reheating.

Can I use dried basil?

Yes, but fresh is better.

Final Thoughts

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is one of those simple dishes that feels special every time you make it. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of bold flavor.

As a home cook, I love how easy it is to turn basic ingredients into something so satisfying. I hope you enjoy every bite.

Happy cooking!

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is creamy, rich, and full of flavor! Made with garlic, cream, Parmesan, olive oil, and pasta—perfect for an easy dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 3
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Skillet or pan
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g pasta penne or fettuccine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh basil chopped

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Sauté garlic

  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Add sun-dried tomatoes

  • Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Make sauce

  • Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.

Step 5: Season

  • Add chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.

Step 6: Combine pasta

  • Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

  • Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
Keyword Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Hi, I'm Isabella Bennett a home cook who believes every meal tells a story. I share simple, delicious recipes made with love, one plate at a time.