Picture this: It’s a weekday evening, you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and comforting—but you definitely don’t want to spend hours cooking. What’s the perfect solution? A delicious plate of creamy sun-dried tomato penne pasta. With its tangy, savory sauce and al dente pasta, this easy vegetarian dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Penne
There are dozens of penne recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few key reasons:
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weekdays.
- Vegetarian Friendly: Satisfying without any meat.
- Flavor Packed: Sun-dried tomatoes and garlic create a robust, tangy taste.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into this easy creamy penne recipe, here’s everything you’ll need:
- Penne pasta
- Sun-dried tomatoes (jarred, in oil)
- Heavy cream
- Garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Choosing the Perfect Penne Pasta
When it comes to pasta, quality does matter. For creamy pasta dishes like this, penne rigate (ridged penne) is the best choice. The ridges help the sauce cling perfectly, creating an irresistible bite every time.
Homemade Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Forget store-bought sauce—homemade sun-dried tomato sauce is surprisingly simple and remarkably tasty. Here’s how to make it:
- Prepare Tomatoes: Drain your jarred sun-dried tomatoes, saving some oil.
- Sauté Garlic: In a pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Blend Ingredients: Combine sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, a splash of reserved oil, and fresh basil in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Now, you’re ready for the next step.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This creamy penne dish comes together in just a few easy steps:
- Cook Penne: Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic briefly.
- Combine Cream and Sauce: Pour your sun-dried tomato sauce into the pan, stirring gently. Add heavy cream, stirring to incorporate.
- Simmer & Season: Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add cooked penne pasta to the pan, tossing thoroughly.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes beautifully creamy.
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Penne Pasta
- Reserve Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta cooking water. If your sauce becomes too thick, adding a little starchy water thins it perfectly.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Perfect al dente texture enhances your dining experience.
- Fresh Basil Garnish: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs—adding basil at the end lifts your dish.
Making It a Full Meal
This penne pasta recipe is delightful on its own, but why not pair it with a few sides?
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy texture.
- Green Salad: A simple mixed salad balances the richness of the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers roasted lightly.
Vegetarian-Friendly & Delicious
One common misconception is that vegetarian dishes lack flavor or satisfaction. This creamy sun-dried tomato penne disproves that myth completely. The robust sauce and satisfying pasta texture ensure that even the most enthusiastic meat-eaters won’t miss the meat!
Customize Your Creamy Penne
Want to add more depth or protein to your pasta? Here are some tasty additions:
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach for added nutrients.
- Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms separately and toss them in.
- Chili Flakes: Sprinkle for an extra kick.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
Weeknight pasta dinner recipes need to be two things: quick and delicious. This creamy sun-dried tomato penne checks both boxes effortlessly. With prep and cooking time totaling under 30 minutes, it’s your new go-to meal for busy evenings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No worries!
- Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan with a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits
In moderation, creamy pasta dishes can be a part of a balanced diet:
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene.
- Garlic: Known for immune-supporting properties.
- Pasta: Provides energy and dietary fiber, especially if you choose whole-grain.
Family-Friendly Favorite
Kids love pasta, and the creamy texture of this penne dish makes it an instant favorite among the younger crowd. Bonus: it’s a sneaky way to introduce veggies by blending spinach or adding small veggie chunks to the sauce!
Serving Ideas and Presentation
To impress your family or guests, serve your creamy sun-dried tomato penne in a large, family-style bowl garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. A simple twist of freshly ground black pepper on top will make your dish pop visually and flavor-wise.
The Joy of Cooking at Home
Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated. With easy recipes like this creamy sun-dried tomato penne, you not only save time but also enjoy the satisfaction of creating wholesome, flavorful meals for those you love.
So next time you’re wondering what’s for dinner, remember this delicious, easy, and quick creamy penne recipe. It’s comfort food done right, every time.
