Are you craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish but tired of the same old recipes? Then get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this Classico Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce! This recipe takes the classic Alfredo sauce and infuses it with the bright, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a surprisingly easy yet incredibly delicious meal. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a romantic date night, or even a casual weekend lunch. This recipe provides healthy meals without sacrificing flavor, making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fettuccine or other pasta of your choice
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, but adds a nice sharpness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This water adds creaminess to the sauce later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – it should be lightly golden.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Slowly stir in the Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses, one at a time. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions to this dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat additions and add sauteed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Fontina.
- Fresh tomatoes: If you prefer, you can use 1 cup of fresh, chopped tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes. Just be aware that the sauce may be a little less intense in flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This Classico Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It's a testament to how simple homemade cooking can create delicious dishes, turning a regular weeknight meal into a special occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe and the best recipes your family will love!