There’s something magical about sun dried tomato pasta that makes it feel like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. Picture this: you take your first forkful and experience the perfect balance of savory, tangy sun dried tomatoes mingling with creamy goodness that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket, instantly lifting your spirits.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were over for a casual dinner party. As they took their first bites, their eyes widened in delight. Little did they know, I had a secret: it was ridiculously easy to whip up! Now, every time I make it, it feels like an occasion worthy of celebration—because who doesn’t love a dish that delights both the palate and the soul?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sun dried tomato pasta is simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory and creamy elements for a delightful experience
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies, this dish never gets boring
I recall my sister’s reaction when she first tasted this pasta; her eyes lit up as if she had just discovered gold. It’s safe to say that this dish has become a family favorite.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta; I recommend penne or fettuccine for better sauce adherence.
Sun Dried Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes packed in oil for maximum flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its luscious texture; don’t skimp here.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic depth; chop them finely for even distribution.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan enhances the overall flavor profile and adds creaminess.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and sautéing; it elevates the dish’s richness.
Fresh Basil: Adds a burst of freshness; chop it just before serving for maximum impact.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden—about 1 minute will do.
Add Sun Dried Tomatoes: Toss in those glorious sun dried tomatoes along with their oil. Stir them into the garlic until they’re warmed through and invitingly aromatic.
Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly—this usually takes 2-3 minutes.
Toss with Pasta: Drain your pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece evenly with that creamy goodness.
Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta along with freshly chopped basil. Give everything one last toss and serve hot—your taste buds are in for a treat!
Enjoy this delightful sun dried tomato pasta as an easy weeknight dinner or dress it up for special occasions!
You Must Know
- Sun dried tomato pasta is not just a dish; it brings vibrant flavors to life
- Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, its rich textures and aromas will have everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente, then sauté garlic and sun dried tomatoes in olive oil. Mix everything together with fresh basil and parmesan for an unforgettable flavor.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize! Swap sun dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or add some spinach for extra color and nutrition. A dash of chili flakes can kick up the heat!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive the pasta’s texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect sun dried tomato pasta, always taste as you go to adjust seasoning
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs; they elevate the entire dish
- Lastly, reserve some pasta cooking water for a creamier sauce consistency
Sharing this recipe reminds me of cooking with my grandma when I was younger, where her secret ingredient was always love—something I still believe makes every dish special.

FAQ
What types of pasta work best for sun dried tomato pasta?
Any pasta shape works well, but penne or spaghetti holds sauce beautifully.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun dried?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to achieve similar flavors.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit cheese and replace with nutritional yeast or a vegan alternative for added flavor.

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Sun-dried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables. With its vibrant colors and aromatic appeal, each forkful is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes with their oil, cooking until warmed through.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss with Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat with sauce.
- Finish: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (230g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg






