Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta

There’s something magical about a dish that looks fancy but only needs a few ingredients. That’s why I’m obsessed with this creamy sun dried tomato pesto pasta. It’s bold, cozy, and full of flavor and the best part? It’s super easy. Just a handful of ingredients, one pan, and a good swirl of pasta water magic.

Method

1. Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, drop in your pasta whatever shape brings you joy and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Right before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. This step is important because that water helps make the sauce creamy and clingy. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the sauce.

2. Start the Sauce

In a large sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly bubbly, add the minced garlic. Let the garlic cook for about 30 to 60 seconds, stirring often. You’re looking for it to smell fragrant and just barely turn golden. Be careful not to let it burn, or it’ll turn bitter.

3. Mix It Up

Now stir in the sun dried tomato pesto, heavy cream, red chili flakes, salt, pepper, and grated pecorino cheese. Pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and give everything a good stir. The mixture should start to come together into a silky, slightly thick sauce. Let it gently simmer for about 2 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it looks rich and glossy. If it seems too thick at this stage, just add a splash more pasta water.

4. Bring It All Together

Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce pan. Use tongs or a spoon to toss the pasta in the sauce until every piece is coated evenly. Keep the pan over low heat as you stir, allowing the pasta to soak in all that creamy, tomato-rich goodness. If the sauce thickens too much while you’re mixing, add a little more reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your perfect consistency.

5. Taste and Adjust

Finally, give your pasta a taste. Want it spicier? Sprinkle in more red chili flakes. Feel like it needs more salt or cheese? Go ahead and add a little extra pecorino or a pinch of salt. Once it’s seasoned just right, take it off the heat and serve it warm.

Necessary Tools

• Large sauté pan
• Medium pot (for pasta)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Garlic press (or knife for mincing)
• Cheese grater

Serving Suggestions

• Top with more pecorino or parmesan
• Add a handful of fresh basil or arugula for some green
• Serve it with warm, crusty bread (you’ll want to mop up the sauce)
• For extra protein, top with grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas

Fun Fact

Sun-dried tomato pesto is basically summer in a jar. It’s made from dried tomatoes packed with flavor, olive oil, and herbs, so every spoonful adds a punch of richness to any dish.

Conclusion

Creamy sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is proof that simple ingredients can come together to make something seriously satisfying. It’s cozy, quick, and feels like something you’d get at a little Italian café. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or your lazy Sunday meal, this one’s a keeper.