Simple, fresh, and irresistibly flavorful—Roasted Cherry Tomato Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a pasta dish that delivers the richness of roasted garlic, the sweetness of blistered cherry tomatoes, and the salty depth of Parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly al dente spaghetti. It’s a weeknight hero that tastes like a weekend indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh, Vibrant Flavors: Sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant garlic create a naturally rich and bright sauce.
- Minimal Effort: Oven-roasting does most of the work while the pasta cooks.
- Customizable: Easily adapted with toppings like lemon zest, breadcrumbs, or additional herbs.
- One Pan + One Pot: Less cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for a quick dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 oz spaghetti
2 pints cherry tomatoes (mixed colors preferred)
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
Optional: lemon zest, toasted breadcrumbs for topping
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, crushed red pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the tomatoes.
- Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until tomatoes are blistered, soft, and beginning to burst. Stir once halfway through roasting.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the baking dish with the roasted tomato mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly, using some of the reserved pasta water to help loosen the mixture and coat the pasta evenly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan, lemon zest, and toasted breadcrumbs if desired.
- Serve immediately with extra herbs and cheese on the side.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: ~410 kcal
Variations
- Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans for a heartier meal.
- Go Vegan: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs.
- Add More Veggies: Mix in roasted zucchini, spinach, or artichoke hearts for added depth.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the texture.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the delicate texture of roasted tomatoes.
FAQs
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry?
Yes, grape tomatoes roast well and offer a similar sweet flavor and texture.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Spaghetti is traditional, but linguine, fettuccine, or even penne will work well.
Do I have to roast the garlic with the tomatoes?
Yes, roasting enhances the garlic’s sweetness and mellows its flavor, balancing the dish perfectly.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely. Cooked pancetta, bacon, or grilled chicken pair beautifully.
What’s the purpose of the pasta water?
The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the noodles, creating a silky coating.
How do I make this dish spicy?
Add more crushed red pepper or a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can roast the tomatoes and prep ingredients in advance, but cook and combine with pasta just before serving for best results.
How do I toast breadcrumbs for topping?
Sauté panko or fresh breadcrumbs in a little olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use less—about 1 teaspoon dried in place of 1 tablespoon fresh.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild, cheesy, and can be adjusted for less garlic or spice if needed.
Conclusion
Roasted Cherry Tomato Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is the perfect union of simplicity and sophistication. With its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and minimal prep, it’s an ideal go-to for busy evenings or relaxed weekends. Whether served on its own or with a side of protein, this pasta dish delivers every time with bright, rustic, and comforting flavor.
PrintRoasted Cherry Tomato Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
A light yet flavorful pasta dish featuring oven-roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, tossed with al dente spaghetti, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Simple, fresh, and perfect for any night of the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting & Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes (mixed colors)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
- Optional: lemon zest, toasted breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tomatoes blister and burst.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Toss spaghetti into the roasted tomato mixture, mixing well. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Top with Parmesan, fresh herbs, and optional lemon zest or toasted breadcrumbs.
- Serve hot with extra cheese and herbs on the side.
Notes
- Use multi-colored cherry tomatoes for a vibrant presentation.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use plant-based cheese.
- Toasted breadcrumbs add extra crunch and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg