Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

from tastesbetterfromscratch.com
6 servings

This creamy Sun-dried Tomato Pasta recipe has penne noodles, spinach, and fresh basil tossed in a flavorful sauce. Perfect for a busy weeknight since it only takes 20 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • ¼-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups milk (not skim)
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 heaping cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 2.5 ounces baby spinach leaves
  • 1/3 cup fresh chopped basil

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to help keep noodles from sticking together. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Heat a skillet over medium heat. Use a little bit of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to sauté them for 1-2 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds more.

  3. 3

    Push to the side and add butter to the pan. Whisk in flour, stirring well for 1-2 minutes until golden (careful not to burn it). Add spices: dried basil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Taste and add salt, pepper, and additional spices as needed.

  4. 4

    Gradually whisk in broth and milk, and cook for several minutes, until sauce slightly thickens. Stir in parmesan cheese. Stir in spinach.

  5. 5

    Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Divide into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped basil, and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired.