Name: Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 4 cups fresh baby spinach; Salt and black pepper to taste; Chopped fresh basil for garnish

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If you’re searching for a pasta dish that tastes like a hug in a bowl, this Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is it. Imagine al dente ribbons of fettuccine tossed in a velvety parmesan cream sauce, studded with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and bursting with spinach for color and freshness. It’s a recipe that brings gourmet vibes without the fuss, ready in just about 25 minutes but impressive enough for entertaining. Whether you’re catering to your own cravings or sharing with friends and family, Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta promises to steal the spotlight at your table.

Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a few simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one works its magic to deliver big flavor, irresistible texture, and a pop of color that makes every bite extra special. Don’t be tempted to skip any – they’re all key to what makes this dish shine!

Pasta (12 ounces fettuccine or penne): Choose your favorite – fettuccine for silkiness, or penne for capturing sauce in every nook.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a fruity, rich base for sautéing and helps bring the sauce together.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The backbone of the sauce, infusing undeniable aroma and depth.
Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (1/2 cup, drained and chopped): Offer sweet-tart flavor and beautiful color; use the oil for extra richness.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Ensures the sauce is luxuriously creamy and coats every strand of pasta.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds savory umami, saltiness, and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Brings together all the classic herb notes for that beloved Italian-inspired flavor.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Lends a gentle heat—perfect for those who like a subtle kick.
Fresh baby spinach (4 cups): Wilts perfectly into the sauce and adds vibrant color and nutrition.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and brightening the overall dish.
Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish): Finishes the pasta with a burst of herbal freshness.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of fettuccine or penne and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. Right before draining, scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water and set it aside – this starchy liquid will help bring the creamy sauce together beautifully later on. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, letting them sizzle for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll smell that irresistible garlic aroma and notice the tomatoes soften and intensify in color – this quick sauté builds the flavor foundation for your Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer – not a rapid boil – and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly and become silky smooth, thanks to the melty cheese and cream.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the fresh baby spinach straight into your shimmering sauce. It will seem like a lot at first, but trust the process – as you stir, the spinach will wilt down in just a minute or two, melting into the sauce and transforming it into a vibrant green-speckled wonder.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add your cooked pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Over low heat, toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce perfectly coats each noodle – creamy but not too thick. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, and let everyone marvel at your gorgeous Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

Nothing says “finished” quite like a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. The basil adds an herby freshness that lifts the creamy richness, while that final shower of cheese gives you the ultimate pasta shop touch. Want some crunch? Try toasted pine nuts scattered on top for an unexpected delight.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a star, but it loves good company! A crisp Caesar or arugula salad brings refreshing balance, while a side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce. For a heartier meal, pair with roasted veggies or a platter of grilled chicken or shrimp alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, you can swirl the Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta into elegant nests on each plate, topped with a basil leaf and a twist of freshly ground pepper. For a cozy night in, serve family-style straight from the skillet, inviting everyone to dig in. Or, portion leftovers into individual meal-prep containers for enviable lunches all week!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Cool any extra Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta and transfer it into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, knowing those deep, rich flavors will only meld and intensify over time.

Freezing

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. Freeze for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the luscious texture.

Reheating

To reheat, add the pasta to a skillet with a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Warm gently over low heat, stirring often, to prevent the sauce from breaking or the pasta from getting too soft. The result is almost as dreamy as the first time around!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne work beautifully for this Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, any pasta shape you love will do. Just be sure to cook until al dente so it holds up in the creamy sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just remember, heavy cream gives the richest result and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.

Is there a way to boost the protein?

Definitely! Sauté some cubed chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms separately until golden, then toss them into your pasta before serving. It’s a delicious and easy way to make Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta a complete meal.

How do I make this pasta vegan?

Swap the heavy cream for cashew cream or unsweetened oat milk, and use your favorite vegan Parmesan substitute. Also, double-check that your pasta is egg-free for a truly plant-based dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to enjoy, cook the pasta fresh and reheat the sauce gently, stirring well before tossing everything together.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, you’re just steps away from welcoming Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta into your weeknight (or weekend!) rotation. Whether you crave a cozy dinner or want to wow guests with minimal effort, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Give it a try and let your kitchen be filled with creamy, garlicky, sun-dried tomato goodness – I can’t wait for you to fall in love with every bite!

Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a decadent yet simple-to-make Creamy Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta that’s bursting with flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach in a luscious cream sauce. This vegetarian pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Additional:

4 cups fresh baby spinach
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
Make the Sauce: In a skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil. Add cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened.
Finish the Dish: Add spinach to the sauce, then toss in cooked pasta and reserved water until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Garnish with basil and extra Parmesan. Enjoy!