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Pasta lovers, rejoice! If you’re searching for a dish that embodies comfort and indulgence, look no further than Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Penne Pasta. This delightful recipe combines the rich, velvety texture of a creamy sauce with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Penne Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Penne Pasta! This delicious recipe features al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce accentuated by the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for gatherings, it's easy to customize with proteins or veggies. With its balance of flavors, this dish will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home cooking repertoire!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup vegetable or chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a hint of spice

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving one cup of pasta water for later use.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and softened. Next, incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until super fragrant.

      Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: To the skillet, mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to let those wonderful flavors combine.

        Create the Sauce: Carefully pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and bring the entire mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer and reduce for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify. After that, gently stir in the heavy cream, bringing it back to a gentle simmer.

          Cheese it Up: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing it in until it's completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce appears too thick, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.

            Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring all the pasta is well-coated with the luscious sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if desired.

              Serve: Transfer the creamy sun-dried tomato penne pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves. For an extra touch, offer additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want to indulge a little more.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4