Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 5 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce is a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic Alfredo sauce. It combines the rich taste of Parmesan with the tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes, giving your pasta dishes a gourmet flair without the fuss.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce

The base of this sauce starts with unsalted butter, which provides a rich, creamy foundation. Garlic is added for aromatic depth, complementing the creaminess with a subtle kick. The heavy cream is essential for creating that luscious texture that clings perfectly to pasta. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the star, delivering a sharp, salty flavor that defines Alfredo sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of tangy sweetness, while a touch of olive oil enhances their richness. Seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a hint of red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat) balances the flavors. Finally, fresh basil adds a bright, herby finish, lifting the entire dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a smoother sauce, finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes or even blend them into a paste before adding.
  • If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and meltability. Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce pairs beautifully with fettuccine or penne pasta. For a complete meal, serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp. A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette would balance the richness perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream is recommended for the best texture, but you can use whole milk for a lighter version. The sauce will be thinner.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore its consistency.

Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it's melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. You don't want the garlic to brown, just to release its aroma and flavor into the butter.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. It's important not to let it boil, as you want a smooth, creamy texture without any risk of curdling.

Once simmering, whisk in the Parmesan cheese gradually. Keep whisking until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. This step is crucial for achieving that silky consistency.

Add the sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil. Stir them in, ensuring the tomatoes are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. They add a delightful tang and texture contrast.

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Let it simmer for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil. This last touch adds a burst of freshness and aroma that elevates the sauce beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy with a tangy twist.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
  • Customizable with optional spice for a kick.

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil; stir to combine.
6. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
7. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Stir in fresh basil just before serving.

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