This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a tasty treat! It features dreamy flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and rich burrata cheese that melts beautifully on top.
Every bite feels like a hug! I love how easy it is to make this dish, and who can resist that gooey burrata? It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: You can use any pasta shape you like. Fettuccine gives a nice feel, but penne works too. If you’re gluten-sensitive, try gluten-free pasta for the same delicious results.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are my personal favorite because they add more flavor and richness. If you can’t find them, dried ones work—just soak them in hot water for 20 minutes, then chop.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for lighter options, half-and-half or coconut milk can be good substitutes, though the flavor will change slightly.
Burrata Cheese: It’s creamy and soft, but if you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a great alternative. Just tear it up and pop it on the pasta to get that melty effect!
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Getting the sauce just right is crucial for this dish! Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the garlic until it’s fragrant but not browned; burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Let the cream simmer gently—this helps it thicken and combine with the other flavors without boiling.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until it’s melted and smooth. If it gets too thick, just add that reserved pasta water to loosen things up.
By following these steps, you’ll have a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata Melt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 ball (about 4 oz/113 g) burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce later if needed!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for about 2 minutes to warm through. This infuses the oil with their flavors and makes the base of the sauce even tastier.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will give you that luscious, creamy texture!
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts into a smooth mixture. If your sauce becomes too thick, just add in a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to taste it and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
6. Combine and Serve:
Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with that delicious sauce.
7. Add the Burrata:
Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Tear the burrata cheese into generous pieces and place them on top of the warm pasta so they start to melt. This is the best part!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy your dish of creamy sun-dried tomato pasta with a heavenly burrata melt!
Your creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is now ready to delight your taste buds—enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Burrata Melt
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne are great options, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just follow the cooking times on the package to ensure it’s al dente.
What If I Don’t Have Burrata Cheese?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a wonderful substitute. Simply tear it into pieces and let it melt slightly over the warm pasta for a delicious effect!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Just make sure to use a vegetarian-friendly Parmesan cheese, as some brands contain rennet derived from animals. There are many great vegetarian substitutes available!
