Name: Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound of cherry tomatoes; 1 head of garlic; 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 pound of pasta (spaghetti or your choice); 3 tablespoons of olive oil; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional); 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

I absolutely love this Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe because it combines the intense sweetness of caramelized cherry tomatoes with the mellow depth of roasted garlic, all tossed with perfectly al dente pasta and fresh basil. It’s one of those recipes that feels both effortlessly simple yet packed with layers of cozy, comforting flavor. Whether I’m whipping it up on a weeknight or serving it to friends over a casual dinner, it never fails to impress and satisfy.

Why You'll Love This Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

When I make this pasta, what really excites me is the rich, naturally sweet flavor that roasting the tomatoes and garlic brings out. The tomatoes blister and caramelize, pouring out a luscious, slightly tangy sauce, while the garlic softens into something sweet and creamy that perfectly balances the acidity. It’s deliciously vibrant, with just enough subtle heat from the optional red pepper flakes to keep things interesting.

What’s more, I find this recipe wonderfully approachable. It doesn’t require any complicated steps or fancy ingredients—just a handful of basics that you might already have on hand. The roasting process does most of the work, allowing the flavors to develop while you prepare the pasta. It’s a real winner if you want a dinner that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Another reason I adore this dish is how versatile it is. It fits seamlessly into weeknight dinners, weekend family meals, and even laid-back dinner parties. The freshness of the basil and Parmesan takes the dish over the top, and it’s easy to adjust for guests or dietary preferences. When I bring this Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe to the table, it always brings smiles and satisfied appetites.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a beige baking dish filled with roasted cherry tomatoes and a whole garlic bulb in the center. The tomatoes are soft, wrinkled, and bright red to deep orange in color, with some seasoning and oil glistening on them. The garlic bulb is roasted, slightly browned on top with cracked cloves and black pepper sprinkled over it. The baking dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this dish comes from simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their own essential element. The juicy cherry tomatoes roast into a sweet, saucy base, while the whole head of garlic becomes creamy and mellow. Olive oil ties everything together, and fresh basil adds that bright, herbaceous note.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Cherry tomatoes: I love using these small, sweet tomatoes because they caramelize beautifully when roasted.
Head of garlic: Roasting softens garlic’s sharpness into a creamy flavor that enriches the sauce.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything roast evenly while enhancing taste.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors.
Pasta: I usually opt for spaghetti, but any long pasta works great with this sauce.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a little warmth and subtle heat without overpowering.
Fresh basil leaves: For a fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the entire dish.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty depth and perfectly complements the tomatoes.
Balsamic vinegar (optional): A small splash adds complexity and a gentle tangy sweetness to the sauce.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot enough to roast the tomatoes and garlic to perfection.

Step 2: Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry carefully; then place them in a large mixing bowl ready for seasoning.

Step 3: Slice the top off your whole head of garlic to expose the individual cloves, which allows them to roast evenly and develop that sweet flavor.

Step 4: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes, then sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Toss everything together gently so the tomatoes get evenly coated.

Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, spread the tomatoes in a single layer, and place the garlic head cut side up on the sheet. Drizzle it with olive oil and sprinkle it lightly with salt.

Step 6: Roast the tomatoes and garlic in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the tomatoes are blistered and juicy, and the garlic cloves are tender and fragrant.

Step 7: While everything roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy cooking water—this will help you adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 9: Once roasted, let the tomatoes and garlic cool for a few minutes, so they’re easier to handle and mash without burning your fingers.

Step 10: Squeeze the soft roasted garlic cloves straight into a large mixing bowl, discarding the skins.

Step 11: Add the blistered tomatoes along with any flavorful juices from the baking sheet to the bowl, then gently mash everything together with a fork or potato masher to release the sauce.

Step 12: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the balsamic vinegar if you like, then taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 13: Toss the warm pasta into the tomato-garlic mixture, adding reserved pasta water little by little until you reach a silky, well-coated consistency.

Step 14: Fold in the chopped fresh basil right at the end to keep its bright flavor vibrant.

Step 15: Serve the pasta in bowls topped with generous amounts of grated Parmesan and a few more fresh basil leaves, plus a light drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of richness.

Servings and Timing

This Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe easily serves 4 people, making it perfect for small family dinners or sharing with friends. The prep time is about 10 minutes, which mostly includes washing and preparing your ingredients. The roasting process takes 25 to 30 minutes, and cooking the pasta takes roughly 10 minutes. Altogether, this gives you a total active and cooking time of around 45 minutes, with no additional resting time needed—so it’s a great option when you want something delicious but not time-consuming.

How to Serve This Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

A white plate holds two small piles of light yellow spaghetti noodles mixed with bright red cherry tomatoes, some whole and some soft and broken, along with a few yellow tomatoes. Fresh green basil leaves are spread on top and around the pasta. A silver fork rests in the middle of the plate, partially sunk into the noodles. Tiny bits of light-colored grated cheese are sprinkled over the dish. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I usually serve this pasta hot, right out of the bowl with the Parmesan melting over the top. It’s excellent paired with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a crisp arugula salad that adds a peppery crunch. For something heartier, roasted vegetables like asparagus or a garlic bread side really complement the garlicky tomato sauce beautifully.

If you want to impress your guests with presentation, I recommend plating the pasta twirled neatly with a fork, topped with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and some extra Parmesan shavings. A light drizzle of olive oil finishes the look elegantly. This adds not only flavor but visual appeal, making it feel like a restaurant-worthy dish.

In terms of beverages, I find a medium-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with the acidity and richness of the roasted tomatoes and garlic. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a chilled herbal iced tea does the trick. I often bring this pasta out for casual dinners, cozy date nights, or anytime I want a no-fuss, flavorful meal that everyone enjoys.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe is how adaptable it is. For gluten-free options, I swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or even spiralized zucchini to keep it light and fresh. You can also make this completely vegan by omitting the Parmesan or using a plant-based cheese alternative that melts nicely on top.

If you want to switch up the flavor profile, try adding sautéed mushrooms or olives for a savory twist or some roasted red peppers for extra sweetness. Stirring in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta can add a luscious, creamy texture that’s perfect for those times when I’m craving something indulgent.

For those who like experimenting with cooking methods, you can roast the tomatoes and garlic in a foil packet on the grill for a smoky flavor or even slow-roast them at a lower temperature for a deeper intensity. Each variation brings a unique touch, but the core ingredients and simple preparation always shine through beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store any leftover Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, which is perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week. Make sure the container seals tightly to preserve the freshness and prevent any odors from mingling with other foods.

Freezing

I wouldn’t recommend freezing this pasta because the texture of the roasted tomatoes and fresh basil can change once thawed. If you do freeze it, try to do so in small portions, in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep for up to 1 month, but the best flavor and texture come from enjoying it fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer warming it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened. Microwaving is quicker but can sometimes make the garlic taste a bit stronger, so I try to avoid that. Reheating slowly helps keep the pasta tender and the sauce silky, almost like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and burst of flavor, you can use grape tomatoes or even small plum tomatoes. Just adjust the roasting time slightly if your tomatoes are larger to ensure they blister and soften properly.

Is it necessary to roast the whole head of garlic?

Roasting the garlic whole is the best way to achieve that creamy, mellow flavor that blends beautifully into the sauce. If you’re short on time, you could mince raw garlic and sauté it briefly, but the flavor won’t be quite as rich and sweet as roasted garlic provides.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can roast the tomatoes and garlic ahead and keep them refrigerated for up to a day before tossing with freshly cooked pasta. I don’t recommend mixing the pasta too far in advance because it can become soggy. Preparing the components separately lets you keep the dish fresh and vibrant.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth but are not overly spicy, especially if you use just half a teaspoon or less. You can always adjust the amount to your taste or omit them entirely for a milder dish.

What type of pasta works best?

I prefer spaghetti or other long, thin pasta like linguine or fettuccine because they twirl nicely and hold the sauce well. That said, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or any shape you like—the flavors will still be fantastic.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe a try because it’s one of my all-time favorites that brings warmth, comfort, and a burst of fresh flavor to any meal. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy night but special enough to share with the people you love. When you make it, I’m sure it will become a go-to dish in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!