Name: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup julienned sun dried tomatoes in olive oil, drained; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste); Small handful fresh basil, chopped finely; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 14 reviews

If you are craving something indulgently comforting yet bursting with vibrant flavor, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. The rich, velvety sauce infused with the tangy sweetness of sun dried tomatoes, a hint of garlic, and layers of melty cheese all envelop perfectly cooked penne pasta. Each bite delivers a creamy texture balanced with subtle herbal and spicy notes, making it a dish that feels both luxurious and satisfying without any complicated steps. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe promises a delightful experience that’s easy to whip up and sure to impress anyone at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a shiny silver pan filled with a creamy white sauce, there are several layers starting with the smooth white sauce covering the pan bottom. On top of this is a small pile of soft light yellow butter and grated pale yellow cheese spread around it. In the center, there is a small heap of thick red tomato paste. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, with uncooked pasta and a small bowl of tomato sauce nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients is key to nailing the bold yet balanced flavor and luscious texture of the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe. Every component plays a vital role in bringing the dish to life, from the tender pasta to the mix of cheeses and herbs that create the perfect sauce harmony.

Penne pasta (8 ounces): The ideal shape to catch the creamy sauce in every bite.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create a smooth roux base.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings fragrant depth and savory warmth to the sauce.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to that irresistibly creamy consistency.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory complexity without overpowering the creaminess.
Heavy cream (1 cup): The star ingredient that makes the sauce luxuriously silky.
Sun dried tomatoes in olive oil (1/4 cup, julienned and drained): Bursts of tangy, slightly sweet flavor that brighten the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded): Melts beautifully to create gooey, stretchy texture.
Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, freshly grated): Offers a sharp, nutty note and elevates the sauce’s depth.
Dried oregano (1/4 teaspoon): Adds earthy herbal undertones that complement the tomatoes.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon or more): Provides a gentle kick of heat to balance the creaminess.
Fresh basil (small handful, chopped finely): Brightens the dish with a fresh, aromatic finish.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential to enhancing and balancing all the flavors.

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil — seasoning the water is crucial so your pasta is flavorful from the inside out. Cook your penne pasta according to package instructions until just tender, then drain it well. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking liquid; it’s a handy secret ingredient for adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Build the Creamy Sauce Base

While the pasta cooks, melt the butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, so it infuses the base with its irresistible aroma. Next, whisk in the flour and cook it until it takes on a light golden hue—this step forms the roux, which is fundamental for that silky sauce texture. Immediately follow with a gradual addition of chicken broth, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Add Cream and Sun Dried Tomatoes

Now comes the heart of the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe: pour in the heavy cream, then fold in the drained, julienned sun dried tomatoes along with the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes, stirring the sauce just until it thickens slightly, about a minute. This rich and tangy mixture will coat your pasta with delightful flavor and creamy goodness.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Seasoning

Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil—this bright herbaceous note lifts the entire dish and adds freshness against the rich sauce. Season your creation generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, making sure every element sings in harmony.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, toss the cooked pasta into your luscious sauce, mixing well so each piece is fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add reserved pasta liquid a little at a time until you reach that perfect creamy consistency. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

A bowl filled with creamy penne pasta layered with a pale off-white sauce, dotted with bright red sun-dried tomatoes, and green fresh basil leaves scattered throughout. The pasta is sprinkled lightly with grated cheese and black pepper, creating small textures on top. To the top left of the bowl, there is a small bowl with more red sun-dried tomatoes. The main bowl is white and placed on a white marbled surface. A silver spoon is partially submerged to the right side of the pasta, and fresh basil leaves sit around the dish, enhancing the fresh look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, scatter extra shredded mozzarella or freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving. Add a few fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a colorful pop and subtle spice finish. This simple touch amplifies the inviting look and layers more nuanced flavor.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh salads such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette to cut through its richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty baguette slices provide the perfect vehicle for mopping up the creamy sauce, turning every last bite into a moment of pure satisfaction. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli round out the meal with some fresh crunch and balanced nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the creamy sun dried tomato pasta in elegant bowls or even hollowed-out bread bowls to delight guests. Garnish with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few toasted pine nuts for unexpected textural contrast. You could also layer it as a baked pasta casserole topped with extra cheese and herbs for a bubbling, golden dish sure to wow any crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe tastes fantastic chilled or reheated the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. The sauce tends to thicken upon standing, so a little extra cream or broth added when reheating helps restore that luscious texture.

Freezing

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and label clearly. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces may separate slightly upon thawing, so gentle reheating with stirring and the addition of a small splash of cream or broth will help bring it back to life.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low-medium heat on the stovetop or microwave to prevent the sauce from breaking. Stir frequently and add reserved pasta water, broth, or a splash of cream as needed to keep the sauce silky and smooth. Avoid high heat and rapid reheating to preserve the fresh flavor and creamy texture you fell in love with.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, feel free to swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle based on your favorite shapes or what you have in the pantry. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?

Yes, you can easily use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully vegetarian. The combination of sun dried tomatoes, cheeses, and herbs ensures the flavor stays robust and satisfying without any meat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and choose dairy-free cheese options or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The sun dried tomatoes and herbs will still deliver amazing taste.

How spicy is this pasta, and can I adjust the heat?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully, but you can easily dial the heat up or down by adjusting the amount used or omitting them altogether if you prefer mild flavors.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta?

Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream, broth, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. This method helps maintain the sauce’s creamy texture without it breaking or clumping.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe a try whenever you want to spoil yourself with an easy yet seriously luscious meal. It balances comforting creaminess, tangy bursts from sun dried tomatoes, and subtle herbs into something truly memorable. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s quickly becoming a favorite, perfect for sharing with friends or simply savoring solo. Go on, treat yourself—you deserve it!