© Original Recipe By Mom’s Meals ©
🍝✨ Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti for Easy Weeknight Dinners
1. Introduction
Imagine swirls of al dente spaghetti coated in a luxurious, creamy sauce infused with the rich, savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti is your answer to a quick, irresistible Italian dinner that elevates any weeknight meal. Bursting with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of sweetness from sun-dried tomatoes, this dish delivers a comforting yet sophisticated flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home chef craving authentic Italian taste, this recipe ensures a seamless dinner experience.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 mins: Perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
- One-pot meal: Less cleanup, more flavor extraction from the ingredients.
- Versatile & customizable: Make it vegan, dairy-free, or add your favorite protein.
- Impressively delicious: Rich, creamy, and bursting with sun-dried tomato goodness.
3. Ingredient Notes
Choosing high-quality ingredients elevates this simple dish to restaurant-quality. Opt for **good quality sun-dried tomatoes**—preferably packed in oil for a softer, more intense flavor. Use **fresh garlic and good extra virgin olive oil** to build a fragrant base. For the cream, you can select heavy cream or substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. When selecting pasta, go for traditional **semolina pasta**—it provides the ideal texture and holds up well in creamy sauces.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To achieve the perfect creamy texture and flawless finish, having the right tools is essential. Invest in a Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for quick reheats or side dishes. A high-quality T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures effortless sauces and pasta prep, while the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer can expand your meal options with ease. A sturdy KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer can be perfect for mixing or making additional sauces.
5. How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water until al dente for your pasta. Meanwhile, chop finely about **a cup of sun-dried tomatoes** (if using dried, soak in warm water first to soften). Mince several cloves of garlic and gather fresh basil if you have it for a burst of herbal aroma. The smell of garlic sautéing in olive oil should be fragrant and inviting—an early sign of the delicious journey ahead.
Sauté & Build the Sauce
Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute—look for a deep, aromatic scent. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The sauce should turn silky and slightly thickened within a few minutes. If you like it extra cheesy, stir in grated Parmesan at this stage.
Combine & Serve
Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente, then drain and toss it directly into your creamy sauce. Stir well to coat every strand. The heat will help the flavors meld beautifully. Finish with freshly chopped basil and a dash of salt and pepper. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Reserve some pasta water: Adding a splash to your sauce helps it cling better and adds depth of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for just shy of perfect doneness since it continues to cook slightly in the sauce.
- Use quality sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed tomatoes are softer and more flavorful, creating a more luscious sauce.
- Stir constantly when adding cream: This prevents scorching and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you’re dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. To add protein, incorporate cooked chicken strips, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during sautéing. Vegetarians can also enhance flavor with kalamata olives or capers.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short bursts. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so stir in a bit more cream or water during reheating for that fresh, creamy texture.
9. FAQ
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream, and ensure your pasta is egg-free. You can also add sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein to enrich the dish.
What pasta shape works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or even penne work beautifully—choose what’s preferred or what you have on hand. The long strands help better absorb the creamy sauce, making each bite flavorful.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat moderate and stir the cream continuously when adding it to the hot pan. Removing the pan from direct heat slightly before adding cream can also help maintain a smooth, velvety consistency.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but note that the texture of the cream may change slightly upon freezing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh, but if you do freeze, store in an airtight container and reheat gently, stirring often.
10. Conclusion
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti is a delightful recipe that combines the umami richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the comforting creaminess of Italian pasta. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests, it proves that simplicity often yields the most memorable flavors. With high-quality ingredients and a few kitchen tricks, you can craft a luxurious, satisfying meal that transports your taste buds straight to Italy. Enjoy!
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Creamy sun-dried tomato spaghetti packed with flavor, perfect for weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of sun-dried tomatoes based on preference for extra flavor.
- Use vegetarian-friendly cheese options if needed.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg