Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that combines the rich, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes with tender pasta and a touch of garlic and herbs. It’s simple but full of personality, with every bite packing a punch of that slightly sweet and savory tomato taste.
I love making this pasta when I want something quick but special. The sun-dried tomatoes give it a unique twist that makes it feel a little fancy without any fuss. Sometimes I toss in a handful of fresh basil or sprinkle some parmesan on top to make it even better. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but is honestly super easy to whip up.
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when friends come over because everyone always asks for seconds. Plus, it reheats nicely if you have leftovers, so you get to enjoy that tasty sun-dried tomato flavor all over again the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Penne Pasta
- Penne works great because its shape holds the sauce well. Feel free to swap it for rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli for a similar effect.
- Sun
- Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed tomatoes bring rich flavor and tenderness. If you have dry-packed ones, soak them in warm water or olive oil before cooking.
- Olive Oil
- This adds moisture and enhances flavor, especially with oil-packed tomatoes. If you prefer, use avocado oil or grapeseed oil instead.
- Heavy Cream
- It creates a lovely creamy sauce. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese
- Adds salty depth. Can't find Parmesan? Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano work well as substitutes.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Without It Breaking?
To keep the cream sauce smooth and velvety, follow these tips:
- Cook the garlic gently in olive oil to bring out flavor without burning.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and stir a bit to release their flavor before adding cream.
- Lower the heat before adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Simmer gently and stir often until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Adding Parmesan slowly while stirring helps the sauce bind and stay creamy.
- If too thick, thin the sauce with reserved pasta water, adding little by little.
Taking your time with each step creates a smooth, rich sauce that coats every pasta piece perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta evenly without crowding.
- Colander – to drain the pasta quickly and easily.
- Large skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking the sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the sauce gently without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts just right.
- Grater – for freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which melts better than pre-grated.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp – to turn the pasta into a more filling meal.
- Mix in fresh spinach or kale – for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Stir in sun-dried tomato pesto instead of plain sun-dried tomatoes – gives a stronger tomato flavor.
- Use feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan – for a tangy, creamy twist.
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably oil-packed), chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (add more if tomatoes are dry)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for slight heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. That includes boiling the pasta, preparing the sauce, and tossing everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy days or when you want a flavorful dinner without waiting long!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10 minutes. Before draining, save about half a cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Start the Sauce:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté for about 1 minute until it smells fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This helps release their rich, tangy flavors into the oil and garlic.
4. Make it Creamy:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Mix in Cheese and Seasonings:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything so the penne is evenly coated with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. If it feels too thick, loosen it a bit with some reserved pasta water.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the pasta right away, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and taste.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta!
Can I Use Dry Sun-Dried Tomatoes Instead of Oil-Packed?
Yes! If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water or olive oil for about 10-15 minutes to soften before adding to the recipe. This helps release their flavor and improves texture.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! Half-and-half works well for a lighter sauce, or you can try a plant-based cream alternative if you want a dairy-free option. Just keep an eye on the sauce thickness as some substitutes may be thinner.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Add Protein or Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms pair wonderfully with this pasta and boost its heartiness and flavor.