Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces bow tie pasta; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Homemade Comfort Meals

I love cooking for my family, and when it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats this Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce. The combination of al dente pasta and a rich, silky sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes and cream makes for a comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy the evening. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-28T07:21:36.054Z

When I first tried this Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together perfectly. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, tangy contrast to the creamy sauce, enriching every bite. I experimented by adding a bit of garlic and fresh basil, which elevated the dish even further. It became a delightful staple in our household.

One trick I discovered while making this recipe is to reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the consistency of the sauce, making it perfectly cling to the pasta. I highly recommend trying it out for a creamier texture that everyone will love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce balanced by tangy sun-dried tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile base that pairs well with additional vegetables or protein

Perfectly Cooked Pasta

Cooking pasta may seem straightforward, but achieving the perfect al dente texture is essential for this dish. Make sure to use a large pot of boiling salted water, which not only enhances the pasta's flavor but also helps keep it from becoming sticky. The time may vary slightly based on the type of bow tie pasta you're using, so check for that tender yet firm bite two minutes before the package's suggested cooking time.

After draining the pasta, remember to reserve that crucial half cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid acts as a binding agent, enriching your creamy sauce and helping it adhere to the pasta. If the sauce thickens too much after adding the pasta, gradually incorporate the reserved water for a desired creaminess without losing that luxurious mouthfeel.

Building the Sauce

The sauce is the star of this recipe, and the balance of flavors is what makes it shine. Olive oil should be heated over medium heat before adding minced garlic, which brings out its natural sweetness without burning. Cook it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to one minute, as overcooking can lead to bitterness in your sauce.

Sun-dried tomatoes are not only flavorful but also pack a nutritional punch. Their intense tartness counterbalances the richness from the heavy cream, giving you layers of taste. For an extra dimension, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the garlic; it deglazes the pan and contributes depth. If you prefer a lighter version, swap half of the heavy cream for vegetable broth without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Dish

8 ounces bow tie pasta
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Mix everything together to create a flavorful meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream, mixing well. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, then season with salt and pepper. Add the drained pasta, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added protein, you can include grilled chicken or shrimp. Adjust the garlic or seasoning to match your taste preference.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken upon standing, but don’t fret! When reheating, simply stir in a splash of water or additional cream while warming over low heat. This will help restore some of the original creaminess and prevent it from becoming too dry or clumpy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sauced pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will hold up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat directly in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little water or cream to maintain that silky texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or steamed broccoli for added nutrition. Adding protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp can transform the dish into a well-rounded meal. If you opt for protein, ensure it's cooked thoroughly and added to the pan before adding the cream to meld the flavors together beautifully.

Consider garnishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. If you want a herbaceous note beyond the basil, fresh parsley also works well. Pair the pasta with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, rounding out a delightful meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will work just fine and adds a nuttier flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add sautéed veggies like spinach or zucchini for more nutrients.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before adding the pasta.

→ What else can I add to this dish?

Feel free to experiment with proteins like chicken or shrimp, or add veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.