This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is full of flavor, making it a perfect dinner! With rich cheese and tangy tomatoes, each bite is sure to make you smile.
And let’s be real, who can resist that ooey-gooey burrata on top? I like to pretend I’m fancy when I serve it, but it’s so easy to whip up!
This dish is a real crowd-pleaser, and the best part? It’s quick to make on busy nights. Just cook the pasta, mix in the sauce, and top with burrata—simple and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using penne, but rigatoni is another great choice. Both work well with the creamy sauce. If you want to go gluten-free, try using a gluten-free pasta—you won’t lose the comfort of this dish!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich and tangy flavor. If you can’t find them packed in oil, you can use dry ones. Just soak them in hot water for about 20-30 minutes to soften first. Also, feel free to swap in roasted red peppers for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly.
Burrata Cheese: Burrata is dreamy and creamy, but if you can’t find it, you could use fresh mozzarella as a substitute. The texture won’t be as gooey, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Is Perfectly Creamy?
To achieve that dreamy, creamy sauce, focus on incorporating the cream correctly. Here’s a straightforward method:
- After sautéing the onions and garlic, pour in the heavy cream slowly while stirring to prevent it from curdling.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together and creates a nice thick sauce.
- If the sauce gets too thick, don’t worry! You can add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
These simple steps can make a big difference in texture and flavor. Enjoy creating your creamy dish!
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Melty Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Essential Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (use the oil from sun-dried tomatoes if available)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped (optional)
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare, from cooking the pasta to finishing the sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set aside the drained pasta.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. You want to ensure the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let them cook in the skillet for 2-3 minutes until they are warmed through and flavorful.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to mix everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 4-5 minutes, so it thickens slightly. This will give you that luscious creamy texture!
5. Mix in Cheese and Season:
Now it’s time to add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, along with the optional red pepper flakes for some heat. Stir everything until well combined. Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta right into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Add Fresh Herbs:
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the fresh basil, if you’re using it. This adds a nice freshness to the dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, divide the pasta among serving plates or place it in a large bowl. Nestle pieces of burrata cheese on top, allowing the creamy cheese to melt slightly over the warm pasta. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta with melty burrata will surely delight your taste buds. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Melty Burrata
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly!
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If burrata is hard to find, fresh mozzarella is a perfect substitute. While it won’t have the same creamy center, it will still be delicious in the dish. You could also try ricotta cheese for a different texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! However, if you want to add protein, consider tossing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach. They can complement the dish wonderfully while keeping it meat-free.
