Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti Easy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

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🍝✨ Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti: Your Easy Weeknight Italian Dream! 🌅

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that combines the rich creaminess of Italian cuisine with the bold, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, then this creamy spaghetti with sun-dried tomatoes recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect blend of silky sauce, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and al dente pasta that comes together in less than 30 minutes—an ideal creamy Italian dinner for busy weeknights.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes: This recipe is perfect when you want a quick yet delightful meal.

One-pot comfort: Minimal cleanup makes your evening stress-free.
Flavor-packed: The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, savory note that elevates simple spaghetti.
Creamy texture: Cream cheese or heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully.
Customizable: Easily adapted with veggies, chicken, or seafood to suit your preference.

3. Ingredient Notes

To craft this quick weeknight spaghetti, high-quality ingredients make all the difference. Fresh garlic and good-quality sun-dried tomatoes, preferably jarred in oil, lend vibrant flavor and aroma. For the creaminess, use heavy cream or a good tangy cream cheese for a velvety texture. Choose dried sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for easy incorporation or dry ones soaked in warm water beforehand. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkle freshness on top.

For pasta, opt for a high-quality spaghetti style like long, thin strands that hold the sauce well. Use freshly grated Parmesan to enhance the cheesy richness. For an extra protein boost, sautéed chicken or shrimp works beautifully with this dish.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Achieve restaurant-quality results with the right tools. A Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer simplifies cooking and crisping ingredients if you want to add a roasted touch or make crispy toppings. A durable T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures easy stirring and prevents sticking. For an effortless cooking experience, a Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer makes grilling or crisping side ingredients a breeze, if desired.

5. How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti

Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until just al dente, following package instructions for that perfect bite. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute—until aromatic and golden. Toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes (from the jar, drained) and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing their intense flavor to infuse the oil.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Next, pour in heavy cream or softened cream cheese, stirring until the sauce turns silky and heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. A handful of grated Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, adding extra creaminess and flavor.

Combine & Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet, tossing gently to coat every strand in your luscious sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best experience—imagine that aromatic, creamy bite melting in your mouth!

6. Expert Tips for Success

Reserve pasta water: Saving a splash of pasta water before draining allows you to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. The starchy water helps thicken and bind the sauce perfectly.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly undercook your spaghetti to keep it firm— it will soak up the sauce better and avoid becoming mushy.

Use good-quality sun-dried tomatoes: They pack the most flavor. Opt for tomatoes packed in oil for added richness.
Build flavor in layers: Sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes first sets a flavorful base before adding cream and cheese.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you need a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. For a protein boost, toss in cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta. Vegetarian? Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for more texture and flavor. You can also swap out spaghetti for zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent overcooking the pasta or curdling the sauce.

9. FAQ

Can I make this creamy spaghetti with sun-dried tomatoes vegan?

Absolutely! Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy, and ensure your sun-dried tomatoes are oil-packed. Top with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

What type of pasta works best?

Long, thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine holds the sauce beautifully. Choose high-quality, durum wheat pasta for the perfect al dente texture.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the pasta ahead and prepare the sauce. Combine just before serving to keep it creamy and fresh.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and gentle flavors make it a hit with little ones. Adjust seasonings to taste, and add some cooked chicken or veggies to bulk it up.

10. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy spaghetti with sun-dried tomatoes on a busy weeknight. It’s a comforting, flavor-packed dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly quick to prepare. Give it a try tonight—your taste buds will thank you! For more tips and kitchen gear recommendations, check out our curated list of essential cooking tools [here](https://sweetswonders.com/creamy-parmesan-chicken-pasta-for-quick-weeknight-dinners-2/).