Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Magic

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to create a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. The rich creaminess combined with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes makes for a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:29:35.820Z

Creating this dish has been a delightful journey for me. I wanted to combine the comforting texture of bow tie pasta with a sauce that would not only be creamy but also packed with flavor. Using sun-dried tomatoes as the star ingredient allows the dish to shine with a unique taste profile that’s hard to resist.

I discovered that adding a touch of garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan at the end elevates the whole dish, giving it a fresh, aromatic finish. Each bite brings together the tanginess of the tomatoes and the richness of the cream, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce with a subtle tang from sun-dried tomatoes
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinners
Pairs beautifully with a side salad and crusty bread

Creating the Perfect Sauce

The beauty of the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce lies in its balance of flavors and textures. When cooking the garlic, aim for a light golden color, which indicates the ideal level of fragrance without burning. This step is crucial, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste that overpowers the dish. Once you add the sun-dried tomatoes, allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes to release their flavors into the oil, which forms the flavorful base of your sauce.

As you add the heavy cream, keep the heat on medium-low to avoid curdling. Stirring continuously helps to achieve a silky consistency. If you find your sauce is too thick, a splash of pasta cooking water can help loosen it; this also adds a bit of starch that helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta. I often find that letting the sauce simmer for an additional minute or two enhances the flavors even more, making it richer and more cohesive.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce, consider serving it with a refreshing side salad, which can balance the richness of the meal. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly. The acidity from the dressing brightens the palate and enhances the overall dining experience. If you're a fan of garlic bread, it makes an excellent accompaniment, too, allowing you to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.

For a twist, feel free to customize the dish by adding protein like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. This not only makes the dish heartier but also adds additional layers of flavor and texture. You can also incorporate fresh spinach or kale into the sauce. These greens wilt quickly and add a lovely color and nutritional boost to the dish, making it a great option for those looking to increase their vegetable intake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious bowl of bow tie pasta.

Ingredients

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Once the sauce thickens, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well-coated and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious homemade dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking. You can also replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish lighter, consider using half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative in place of heavy cream. While this will yield a slightly less rich sauce, it maintains a pleasing creaminess. For a dairy-free option, substituting coconut cream or a nut-based cream can work well, keeping the sauce luxurious without the lactose.

When it comes to sun-dried tomatoes, if you can't find the jarred variety, try using fresh tomatoes. Roast them until they're concentrated and slightly caramelized. This will take about 30-40 minutes at 400°F, but the result will be a fresh twist that has a contrasting texture. Dried tomatoes can work too, but remember to soak them in hot water for about 30 minutes before using to rehydrate.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Bow Tie Pasta dish is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare the sauce a day in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently in a skillet before tossing with the freshly cooked pasta. If you're short on time, you could also cook the bow tie pasta ahead and combine it with the sauce when ready to serve; it’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.

For freezing, it’s better to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat. This method helps maintain the sauce's flavor and texture, ensuring a delicious meal that’s quick to put together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this pasta dish?

While it's best fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for later use.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or garlic bread on the side.