Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a simple, comforting pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan, all flavored with my homemade Tuscan seasoning. This quick and easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or anytime you want a rich, flavorful pasta. If you want some protein with your pasta, try my fan-favorite Creamy Tuscan Chicken!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pasta: I used campanelle, a fluted, bell-shaped pasta that holds the creamy sauce beautifully. You could also use cavatappi, penne, or rigatoni if you like. Cook it al dente according to package instructions.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness to the sauce. You can use salted butter, but you may want to skip adding extra salt (if using).
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a fragrant, savory flavor. Jarred minced garlic works if you’re in a hurry.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy flavor to the sauce. Use oil-packed and drained, or rehydrate dry tomatoes in hot water for 10 minutes before using.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth and helps make the sauce flavorful. Low-sodium broth is best, so you can control the saltiness.
- Homemade Tuscan Seasoning: This brings the bold Tuscan flavors to the sauce. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder works well.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy whipping cream gives the sauce a smooth, rich texture. You can use light cream, but the sauce will be thinner.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce and adds a nutty, savory flavor.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh basil or parsley brightens the dish and adds color on top before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape works, though short tube-shaped pasta like penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi holds the sauce best.
Can I make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Absolutely! Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta. If using pre-cooked protein, stir it in at the end just to warm through.
Why is freshly grated Parmesan cheese best?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and evenly into the sauce, giving it a creamier texture and more vibrant flavor. Pre-grated or powdered cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can make the sauce slightly grainy.
Can I make this recipe lighter?
Yes. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap a portion of the cream with milk. The sauce will be a little thinner but still flavorful.
How to Store Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Refrigerator: Store leftover pasta and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened.
Freezer: You can freeze cooked pasta and sauce for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stovetop.
Tip: To keep the pasta from sticking together when storing, you can toss it lightly with a little olive oil before refrigerating or freezing.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces campanelle pasta, cooked al dente according to package instructions
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 bag (3 ounces) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed drained, or dry rehydrated)
- 1 cup (8 ounces) chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon homemade Tuscan seasoning
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
- Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook 30 to 60 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and add Tuscan seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until thickened.
- Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in cooked pasta, coating it in the creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
