This creamy pasta is a treat, especially with sweet roasted cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor. It’s a simple dish that feels special and is sure to make your taste buds dance!
When those cherry tomatoes roast, they get all caramelized and delicious. I can’t resist eating a few straight from the pan! It’s a comforting meal that’s quick and easy for busy nights.
What I love most is how the creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy tomatoes. Just toss everything together and enjoy a big bowl of happiness in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: You can use penne, fusilli, or spaghetti for this dish. If you’re gluten-free, chickpea or rice pasta works well too! I often lean towards penne because the sauce gets stuck in the tubes.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little beauties are the stars, offering sweetness. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes or even larger ones can be diced and used instead. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness!
Heavy Cream: It gives the sauce its creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream like coconut milk, but the taste will change slightly. I find that a bit of cream makes everything feel more indulgent!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a great choice. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan alternative for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
How Do I Roast Cherry Tomatoes Perfectly?
Roasting cherry tomatoes is easy and truly brings their flavor to life. Here’s how to achieve perfectly roasted tomatoes every time:
- Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the halved tomatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to infuse them with flavor!
- Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. If they’re too crowded, they may steam instead of roast!
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until they are soft and starting to caramelize. Keep an eye on them; you want them blistered but not burnt!
These steps will help you get those delicious, sweet bursts of flavor that make your pasta dish shine.
How to Make Creamy Pasta with Sweet Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
For the Roasted Tomatoes:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes total, including roasting the tomatoes and cooking the pasta. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting those sweet cherry tomatoes!
2. Roast the Cherry Tomatoes:
In a baking dish or on a sheet pan, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper, and dried oregano. Spread them out in a single layer and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are soft, caramelized, and slightly blistered. Once done, remove them from the oven and set aside on the counter.
3. Cook the Pasta:
While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help thicken your sauce, so don’t toss it!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine and Toss:
Add the roasted cherry tomatoes, along with their juices, to the skillet. Stir them in gently to combine everything. Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce and create a creamy texture.
6. Finish the Dish:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season with the remaining salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if you like a bit of heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for that lovely finishing touch.
Enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy pasta with the sweet burst of roasted cherry tomatoes!
FAQ for Creamy Pasta with Sweet Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, rotini, or gluten-free options like chickpea pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or a bit of pasta water to keep it creamy!
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Yes! Fresh herbs can add a vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. So, if your recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, use about 1.5 teaspoons of fresh oregano!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream. Keep in mind that using alternatives may slightly change the flavor and creaminess of the sauce, but it will still be delicious!
