Nothing beats the rich, natural flavors of Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta. Roasting tomatoes and garlic intensifies their sweetness and brings out a deep, savory flavor that makes this pasta dish irresistible.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a cozy date-night meal, this recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. With tender spaghetti tossed in a fresh roasted tomato and garlic sauce, finished with basil and Parmesan, it’s a simple yet impressive Italian-inspired dish.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta

Bright, naturally sweet roasted tomato flavor
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners
Minimal ingredients, big flavor
Vegetarian-friendly and versatile
Pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fresh salad

Ingredients

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
6–8 garlic cloves, unpeeled
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 ounces spaghetti or pasta of choice
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Optional:

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar for added depth

Instructions

Roast the tomatoes and garlic.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cherry tomatoes and unpeeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast 20–25 minutes until tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the pasta.
While the tomatoes roast, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Mash the roasted garlic.
Remove garlic cloves from their skins and mash into a smooth paste.
Make the sauce.
Transfer roasted tomatoes to a bowl and lightly mash with a fork or potato masher. Stir in roasted garlic, red pepper flakes, and optional balsamic vinegar. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin if needed.
Toss pasta with sauce.
Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Finish with toppings.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta

Even roasting: Halve tomatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Enhance flavor: Roast longer for deeper caramelization.
Adjust consistency: Use reserved pasta water to achieve a saucy texture.
Fresh herbs: Add basil at the end to preserve its aroma.

Variations

Creamy Tomato Pasta: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons cream or mascarpone cheese for a creamy twist.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
Pasta Alternatives: Try penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or a side salad
Drizzle extra olive oil over the pasta for richness
Sprinkle additional Parmesan for a cheesy finish

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce

Nutritional Benefits

High in antioxidants from roasted tomatoes and garlic
Low in calories and vegetarian-friendly
Fresh herbs and olive oil provide healthy fats and flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, use ripe Roma or vine tomatoes; slice evenly for roasting.

Can this be made ahead?

Roast the tomatoes and garlic ahead of time; assemble and toss with pasta before serving.

Can I freeze this pasta?

The sauce can be frozen separately, but pasta is best cooked fresh.

Can I make it vegan?

Omit Parmesan or replace with a vegan cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta is a simple, flavorful dish that elevates weeknight dinners with minimal effort. The roasted tomatoes and garlic create a naturally sweet and savory sauce that’s perfect for pasta lovers. Whether served as a vegetarian main or paired with protein, it’s a dish full of vibrant, irresistible flavor.