I just finished making this creamy sun dried tomato pasta Recipe, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together so easily. I love how the sauce turns out rich, velvety, and packed with flavor without needing complicated steps.

When I took my first bite, the tangy, Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta felt like pure comfort food. I’ve made it for weeknight dinners and even for guests, and it never disappoints. If you’re craving a cozy, restaurant-style pasta at home, this recipe is absolutely worth trying. You can also enjoy similar rich textures in a cast iron skillet pizza for a completely different but equally satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need, along with a few tips I’ve learned that make a real difference.

Pasta (12 oz, penne or fettuccine)
Short pasta like penne holds the creamy sauce well, while fettuccine gives a more classic, silky bite.
Sun dried tomatoes (½ cup, oil-packed, sliced)
Oil-packed tomatoes are softer and more flavorful than dry ones, and the oil adds depth to the sauce.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
Use good-quality olive oil since it forms the base flavor of the sauce.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons)
Butter adds richness and balances the tanginess of the tomatoes.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Freshly minced garlic gives a stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-minced versions. This is also the flavor that makes French onion soup burgers recipe so irresistible.
Heavy cream (1 cup)
This creates the luxurious, creamy texture that makes the dish so comforting.
Chicken broth (½ cup)
Broth lightens the sauce slightly and prevents it from becoming too heavy.
Parmesan cheese (¾ cup, freshly grated)
Always grate cheese fresh; pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
A simple blend that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it.
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional)
Adds a gentle heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Salt (to taste)
Season gradually, especially since Parmesan is already salty.
Black pepper (to taste)
Freshly cracked pepper gives a cleaner, sharper finish.
Fresh basil (¼ cup, chopped, for garnish)
Basil adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.

Note: The above ingredient quantities make approximately 4 servings.

Variations

This creamy sun dried tomato pasta is incredibly flexible, and I’ve tried a few variations that work wonderfully.

For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The sauce stays creamy with a slightly nutty flavor.
If you want to add protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu are great options that blend well with the sauce.
For extra veggies, toss in fresh spinach or mushrooms during the final simmer; they add texture and nutrients without changing the flavor much.
To make it extra indulgent, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or mascarpone for an even richer sauce.

Cooking Time

This recipe is perfect when you want something quick but impressive.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Large pot – for boiling pasta evenly
Large skillet – to prepare the creamy sauce
Colander – for draining pasta while saving some pasta water
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce gently
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, and each one builds flavor beautifully.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. I always cook it until just al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy later. Before draining, I reserve about ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed.

Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted. I add the minced garlic and sun dried tomatoes, stirring gently so the garlic doesn’t burn. This step releases their aromas and infuses the oil with flavor.

Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. I then add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. The sauce thickens as it simmers, turning smooth and creamy.

Add Cheese and Combine

I lower the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the sauce, making it rich and glossy. If the sauce feels too thick, I add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Toss Pasta and Finish

Finally, I add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss everything together. The pasta gets fully coated in the sauce. I finish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, I’ve learned a few tricks that really elevate it.

I always use oil from the sun dried tomatoes jar for extra flavor.
I taste the sauce before adding salt because Parmesan adds saltiness.
I keep the heat low when adding cream to prevent curdling.
I let the pasta sit in the sauce for a minute so it absorbs more flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?

This pasta looks beautiful on its own, but a few touches make it even better. I like serving it in shallow bowls with a swirl of sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for color. It pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

This dish is comforting and filling, while still offering balanced nutrients.

Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
Protein: Around 15g per serving
Carbohydrates: About 55g per serving
Fat: Roughly 28g per serving

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days without losing too much texture or flavor.

Freezing

I don’t usually recommend freezing creamy pasta, but it can be done. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month, knowing the sauce may slightly change in texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. I add a splash of milk or broth and stir well to bring the sauce back to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, and here’s why it stands out.

It’s quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
The recipe is versatile, letting you customize it with proteins or veggies.
The creamy sauce feels indulgent but uses simple, accessible ingredients.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for both family dinners and special occasions.

If you’re looking for a comforting pasta dish that feels special yet effortless, this creamy sun dried tomato pasta recipe is one you’ll keep coming back to.

Ash Tyrrell