Sun Dried Tomato Pasta – An Easy Weeknight Comfort Meal
Alright, folks, let’s discuss a pasta dish that looks like you put in way more effort than you actually did. This sun dried tomato pasta recipe is full of bold flavors and creamy goodness, with just the right amount of richness and zest. Whether you’re craving a comforting garlic pasta recipe or something with a touch of fancy without the stress, this dish delivers. It’s an easy pasta recipe that comes together in under 20 minutes flat, making it the ultimate weeknight hero.
Why You’ll Love This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
We all need some easy recipes that taste great but don’t take all night to make. This sun dried tomato pasta recipe checks all the boxes:
- Fast & Easy – Dinner is on the table in no time. This dish is quick and easy and perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to cook anything too complicated.
- Restaurant-Worthy – This one looks and tastes like something straight off a fancy Italian menu, but you made it at home in your sweats. Winning!
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Just a few pantry staples mix to make a rich, garlicky, and creamy pasta dish. It feels fancy but it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
- Customizable – Want to add some protein? Throw in some grilled chicken or shrimp. Feeling extra fancy? A handful of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze will take this garlic pasta recipe to the next level.
The Magic of Sun Dried Tomatoes
Let’s take a moment to appreciate sun dried tomatoes—little bursts of concentrated flavor that pack a punch. They bring a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly compliments the garlicky, creamy sauce.
When sautéed in olive oil, sun dried tomatoes release their deep, savory, tomato flavor and become the star of the show. With the crispy garlic and creamy cheese, you get a sauce that sticks to every strand of spaghetti. And this makes every bite of your sun dried tomato pasta a true delight.
Garlic Pasta Recipe Meets Creamy Indulgence
If you’re a garlic lover (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), this garlic pasta recipe is for you.
We’re taking garlic to the next level, with this one. We slice it thin and fry it until it’s nice and crispy. This infuses the oil with all that amazing garlic flavor.
And let’s discuss the sauce—because, wow. Light cream cheese and Parmesan melt together into a silky, rich coating that wraps around the pasta like a cozy blanket. Add in that starchy pasta water magic, and you have a restaurant-quality dish. This makes this sun dried tomato pasta recipe creamy but not too heavy.
The Secret to the Perfect Pasta Sauce
Pasta water is the unsung hero of this dish. Before you drain the pasta, save a cup or two of that starchy water.
It’s key to making a silky, glossy sauce. Adding pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, ensuring it clings to every bite rather than pooling at the bottom of the bowl. This makes a significant difference, so don’t skip this step.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best?
I love using Garofalo spaghetti for this dish because it holds up beautifully to the sauce while keeping that perfect al dente bite. But feel free to mix things up! Penne, fettuccine, or even a fun shape like orecchiette would work just as well.
Make This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Your Own
One of the best things about this easy pasta recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some ways you can switch things up:
- Add Protein – Chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta would be a stellar addition.
- Make It Spicy – A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a nice kick.
- Go Extra Creamy – Swap the light cream cheese for full-fat or add a splash of heavy cream.
- Boost the Freshness – Fresh basil, parsley, or even arugula tossed in at the end adds a pop of color and flavor.
Serving & Storing
This pasta is best enjoyed immediately, while the sauce is at its peak creamy perfection. If you have leftovers (unlikely, but possible), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or a bit more cream to bring the sauce back to life.
The Bottom Line
This sun dried tomato pasta is easy, impressive, and downright delicious. It’s the perfect go-to when you need a meal that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish will make you look like a pro in the kitchen.
Give it a go and let me know what you think—I have a feeling this one’s going straight into your regular rotation!
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Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 5-6 cloves garlic, sliced
- 3/4 cup sun dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
- 1/4 cup light cream cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 cups pasta water
- 1/2- 1 tbsp roughly ground pepper
- 1/2 package Garofalo spaghetti
Instructions:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until golden and crispy. Be careful not to burn it. Remove the garlic with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt generously, and drop in ½ package of Garofalo spaghetti. Cook until just shy of al dente, reserving 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- In the same pan with the remaining garlic-infused oil, add the sun dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to soften and melt into the tomatoes. Add the Parmesan and pepper. Slowly pour in 1 cup of reserved pasta water, stirring to create a silky sauce. Add more if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the pan, tossing well to coat in the sauce. Let it simmer for another minute, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors. Adjust with more pasta water if necessary.
- Return the crispy garlic to the pan, give everything a final toss, and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper if desired.
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