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Pasta with Spicy Sun-Dried-Tomato Cream Sauce

This vibrant vegetarian pasta dish combines the intense, savoury punch of sun-dried tomatoes with a luxurious cream sauce. The addition of roasted red peppers and a hint of dried chilli flakes provides a gentle heat that cuts through the richness, while a generous amount of fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic finish. It is a sophisticated yet simple meal that celebrates classic Mediterranean pantry staples, delivering deep flavour in under thirty minutes.

Perfect for a mid-week dinner or a relaxed weekend meal with friends, this recipe is incredibly versatile. The sauce clings beautifully to the penne, ensuring every bite is well-seasoned and satisfying. Serve this comforting bowl of pasta with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and perhaps a crisp green salad on the side for a balanced, homemade feast that feels truly indulgent.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Pasta with Spicy Sun-Dried-Tomato Cream Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 4 large garlic cloves, finely chopped

  • 240ml chopped drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes

  • 240ml whipping cream

  • 1 7.700g jar roasted red peppers, drained, chopped

  • 1/2 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper

  • 1 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

  • 450g penne pasta

  • 120g freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to make Pasta with Spicy Sun-Dried-Tomato Cream Sauce

Heat oil in heavy medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add tomatoes, cream, red peppers and crushed red pepper; simmer over medium heat 2 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup basil and simmer 1 minute longer.

Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain, reserving 180ml pasta cooking liquid. Return pasta to pot. Add sauce, cheese and 1/2 cup basil and toss to coat. Add enough reserved cooking liquid to pasta to moisten if dry. Season with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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