If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, packed with flavor, and downright irresistible, this heavenly marry me pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re indulging in something special, yet it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal.
You’ll love how the rich sauce blends perfectly with tender pasta and the sweet, tangy pop of sun-dried tomatoes. This marry me pasta will quickly become a go-to recipe to fall in love with again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and comforting with a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a perfect sweet and tangy depth.
- Ready in under 30 minutes for a quick but impressive meal.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or protein.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create the perfect marry me pasta with sun-dried tomatoes. Each element works together to build a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish.
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
How to Make Heavenly Marry Me Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes – A Dish to Fall in Love With!
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the tomato paste, red pepper flakes, and dried Italian seasoning to the skillet, stirring for 1 minute to combine and deepen the flavors.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring occasionally. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every strand is well coated. Season with salt and fresh black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil for a burst of freshness.
- Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the pasta for extra richness. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor and better texture.
- Reserve some pasta water—it helps loosen the sauce without watering it down.
- Don’t overcook your pasta; al dente texture balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for brightness.
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover marry me pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken when chilled; simply add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
You can freeze this pasta for up to 1 month, but note that the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?
Yes, but dried sun-dried tomatoes should be rehydrated in warm water before using to soften them. Oil-packed tomatoes generally add more flavor and richness to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this marry me pasta?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat additions. The sauce is rich and flavorful enough on its own.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cooking times may vary slightly, so follow package instructions.
