Roasted Tomato Cream Pasta Delightful and Easy Recipe

Name: Roasted Tomato Cream Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 to taste Salt; 1 to taste Pepper; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne); 1 for garnish Fresh basil leaves; 1 to taste Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

October 13, 2025May 7, 2025 by Nora

Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? My Roasted Tomato Cream Pasta recipe combines rich flavors and simple steps, perfect for any skill level. You’ll learn how to roast juicy tomatoes and create a creamy sauce that ties it all together. Plus, I’ll share tips for making it your own with easy variations. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why I Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: The combination of roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh basil elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a burst of freshness.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner without compromising on taste.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to the dish, allowing for endless variations.
Comfort Food: The creamy sauce combined with pasta makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Cream Pasta

For this dish, you will need:

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne works great)

These ingredients create a rich and flavorful base. The cherry tomatoes give natural sweetness, while the cream adds a smooth texture.

Suggested Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers

To boost flavor, I suggest:

Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

These seasonings enhance the dish without overpowering it. Fresh herbs can also add brightness if you have them.

Optional Garnishes and Additions

For a special touch, consider:

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Garnishes not only make your dish look appealing, but they also add fresh flavor and textures.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Tomatoes

First, you need to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will roast the tomatoes well. Next, take the halved cherry tomatoes and put them on a baking sheet. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes. Then, season them with salt, pepper, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Toss everything together to coat the tomatoes evenly. Now, place the baking sheet in the oven and roast those tomatoes for about 25 to 30 minutes. They should turn soft and slightly caramelized when done.

Cooking the Pasta al Dente

While the tomatoes roast, it’s time to cook the pasta. Choose any pasta you like, such as fettuccine or penne. Follow the instructions on the package to cook the pasta until it is al dente. Al dente means it’s firm but not hard. After cooking, drain the pasta but save 1 cup of pasta water. This water will help adjust the sauce later. Set the pasta aside and wait for the tomatoes to finish roasting.

Making the Cream Sauce with Roasted Tomatoes

Once the tomatoes are done, it’s time to make the sauce. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is hot, pour in the roasted tomatoes along with all their tasty juices. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken a bit for about 3 to 5 minutes. Slowly add in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and becomes smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This will help you reach a nice creamy consistency. Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix well. If you like it spicy, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic and Herbs

To boost flavor, use fresh garlic. Mince three cloves for a strong taste. Add a teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil. These herbs bring warmth and depth to your pasta. If you have fresh herbs, use them! Fresh basil adds a bright note.

Secrets to Perfectly Roasted Tomatoes

Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness. Halve two cups of cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. Look for soft and caramelized tomatoes; that’s when they shine.

How to Adjust Sauce Consistency

The cream sauce should be smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, use reserved pasta water. Add a little at a time until you reach the right consistency. This makes the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly!

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Tomatoes: For an even sweeter flavor, consider using fresh, ripe tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes. They will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth for a delicious, lower-calorie option.
Perfect Pasta Cooking: Always cook your pasta in salted water for optimal flavor. This will ensure that your pasta is well-seasoned and complements the sauce beautifully.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. Consider using a mix of basil and parsley for a colorful and flavorful garnish.

Variations

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

You can make this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan option, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Both options keep the dish rich and creamy while adding a unique flavor.

Adding Protein: Chicken, Shrimp, or Tofu

Adding protein to your pasta makes it heartier. Cooked chicken or shrimp pairs well with the creamy sauce. Simply sauté them in olive oil before adding the roasted tomatoes. If you prefer tofu, use firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and sauté until golden before mixing it in.

Different Pasta Shapes to Try

You don’t have to stick with fettuccine or penne. Try different shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or even zoodles for a fun twist. Each shape holds sauce differently, making your meal exciting and new.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Roasted Tomato Cream Pasta

To store your leftover roasted tomato cream pasta, first let it cool. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh. Make sure to use it within three days for the best taste. If you have extra sauce, store it in a separate container. This helps keep the texture just right.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Texture

When it’s time to eat your leftovers, reheat the pasta gently. I like to use a skillet. Add a splash of water or milk to help loosen the sauce. Heat it on low and stir often. This way, you avoid drying it out. You can also use a microwave. Just cover the pasta with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.

Freezing Guidelines and Best Practices

If you want to freeze roasted tomato cream pasta, do it right. Store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. It’s best to eat it within two months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat as mentioned before. Enjoy every creamy bite!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead?

Yes, you can use store-bought tomato sauce. It saves time and effort. However, the flavor will differ. Roasting fresh tomatoes gives a rich taste. If you choose sauce, pick one that is thick. Look for brands with natural ingredients for the best results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use whole milk or half-and-half. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or sour cream. If you want a dairy-free choice, use coconut cream or cashew cream. Each option changes the dish’s flavor and texture slightly, so choose what you like best.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add spice, use crushed red pepper flakes. Stir them into the sauce for heat. You can also add diced jalapeños or fresh chili peppers. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

Roasted Tomato Cream Pasta combines fresh flavors with simple steps. We explored key ingredients and seasonings that elevate this dish. You learned how to roast tomatoes perfectly and make a rich cream sauce. I shared tips on customizing with various proteins and pasta shapes. You can now store and reheat leftovers effectively.

Embrace these ideas to create a delicious meal. Cooking this dish will impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your ow

$For this dish, you will need: - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper, to taste - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne works great) These ingredients create a rich and flavorful base. The cherry tomatoes give natural sweetness, while the cream adds a smooth texture. To boost flavor, I suggest: - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) These seasonings enhance the dish without overpowering it. Fresh herbs can also add brightness if you have them. For a special touch, consider: - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Extra grated Parmesan cheese - Crushed red pepper flakes for heat Garnishes not only make your dish look appealing, but they also add fresh flavor and textures. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, you need to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will roast the tomatoes well. Next, take the halved cherry tomatoes and put them on a baking sheet. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes. Then, season them with salt, pepper, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Toss everything together to coat the tomatoes evenly. Now, place the baking sheet in the oven and roast those tomatoes for about 25 to 30 minutes. They should turn soft and slightly caramelized when done. While the tomatoes roast, it’s time to cook the pasta. Choose any pasta you like, such as fettuccine or penne. Follow the instructions on the package to cook the pasta until it is al dente. Al dente means it’s firm but not hard. After cooking, drain the pasta but save 1 cup of pasta water. This water will help adjust the sauce later. Set the pasta aside and wait for the tomatoes to finish roasting. Once the tomatoes are done, it’s time to make the sauce. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is hot, pour in the roasted tomatoes along with all their tasty juices. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken a bit for about 3 to 5 minutes. Slowly add in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and becomes smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This will help you reach a nice creamy consistency. Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix well. If you like it spicy, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal! To boost flavor, use fresh garlic. Mince three cloves for a strong taste. Add a teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil. These herbs bring warmth and depth to your pasta. If you have fresh herbs, use them! Fresh basil adds a bright note. Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness. Halve two cups of cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. Look for soft and caramelized tomatoes; that’s when they shine. The cream sauce should be smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, use reserved pasta water. Add a little at a time until you reach the right consistency. This makes the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly! Pro Tips Use Fresh Tomatoes: For an even sweeter flavor, consider using fresh, ripe tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes. They will enhance the overall taste of the dish. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth for a delicious, lower-calorie option. Perfect Pasta Cooking: Always cook your pasta in salted water for optimal flavor. This will ensure that your pasta is well-seasoned and complements the sauce beautifully. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. Consider using a mix of basil and parsley for a colorful and flavorful garnish. {{image_2}} You can make this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan option, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Both options keep the dish rich and creamy while adding a unique flavor. Adding protein to your pasta makes it heartier. Cooked chicken or shrimp pairs well with the creamy sauce. Simply sauté them in olive oil before adding the roasted tomatoes. If you prefer tofu, use firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and sauté until golden before mixing it in. You don’t have to stick with fettuccine or penne. Try different shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or even zoodles for a fun twist. Each shape holds sauce differently, making your meal exciting and new. To store your leftover roasted tomato cream pasta, first let it cool. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh. Make sure to use it within three days for the best taste. If you have extra sauce, store it in a separate container. This helps keep the texture just right. When it’s time to eat your leftovers, reheat the pasta gently. I like to use a skillet. Add a splash of water or milk to help loosen the sauce. Heat it on low and stir often. This way, you avoid drying it out. You can also use a microwave. Just cover the pasta with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. If you want to freeze roasted tomato cream pasta, do it right. Store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. It’s best to eat it within two months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat as mentioned before. Enjoy every creamy bite! Yes, you can use store-bought tomato sauce. It saves time and effort. However, the flavor will differ. Roasting fresh tomatoes gives a rich taste. If you choose sauce, pick one that is thick. Look for brands with natural ingredients for the best results. You can use whole milk or half-and-half. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or sour cream. If you want a dairy-free choice, use coconut cream or cashew cream. Each option changes the dish's flavor and texture slightly, so choose what you like best. To add spice, use crushed red pepper flakes. Stir them into the sauce for heat. You can also add diced jalapeños or fresh chili peppers. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Just remember, a little goes a long way! Roasted Tomato Cream Pasta combines fresh flavors with simple steps. We explored key ingredients and seasonings that elevate this dish. You learned how to roast tomatoes perfectly and make a rich cream sauce. I shared tips on customizing with various proteins and pasta shapes. You can now store and reheat leftovers effectively. Embrace these ideas to create a delicious meal. Cooking this dish will impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own.$