Creamy Roasted Tomato Pasta
A lush and comforting dish that combines roasted cherry tomatoes with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes These sweet, juicy little gems burst with flavor when roasted.
- 1 whole yellow onion (quartered) Caramelizes when roasted, enhancing the overall taste.
- 5 cloves garlic (peeled) Adds depth and fragrance to the dish.
- 3 tbsp olive oil Elevates the flavors and brings the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Creates a velvety texture for the pasta.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) Provides a nutty Italian flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (packed) Adds a fresh touch and herbal note.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Adds a bit of heat; adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp salt Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground) Adds warmth and complexity.
- 1 lb rigatoni or penne pasta Holds sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (as needed) Helps to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large baking sheet, combine the cherry tomatoes, quartered onion, and whole garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything to coat evenly.
Cooking
- Roast the vegetables in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and bursting, and the onions are golden and sweet.
- While those delightful vegetables are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- After the vegetables have roasted, carefully transfer them along with any pan juices into a blender. Add the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and red pepper flakes. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Pour the creamy sauce into a large skillet set over medium-low heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve your creamy roasted tomato pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Notes
For best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Watch the roasting process to avoid burning. Ensure the pasta is al dente to prevent mushiness.