This creamy cherry tomato pasta is a burst of flavor! With sweet tomatoes and rich parmesan, it’s both comforting and delightful for any meal.
I love how quick it is to make this dish—20 minutes and you’ve got a bowl of happiness. Perfect for those busy nights when you want something tasty! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Any pasta works great! I like penne for its ridges that hold the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a fresh twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are perfect for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, use canned diced tomatoes. They’ll still create a tasty sauce!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though it will be less creamy. Vegan options like coconut cream can also work well, just note it might add a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated Parmesan adds a wonderful depth. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute; it’s saltier and has a sharper bite. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option!
How Do You Make the Sauce Super Creamy?
Creating a rich and creamy sauce is all about careful blending and cooking. Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil for flavor. Then, add your cherry tomatoes and let them cook until they burst. This brings out their sweetness.
- Keep the heat low when adding cream and butter, allowing them to melt and blend without boiling.
- When combining with pasta, add reserved pasta water gradually. This helps the sauce cling better, giving you that perfect creamy texture.
Always mix in Parmesan last for maximum creaminess! It melts beautifully into the sauce, enhancing the flavor.
How to Make Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta With Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cherry tomato pasta will take you about 20 minutes to prepare from start to finish. This includes cooking the pasta and making the sauce, so you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, drain the pasta, and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and start bursting. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Allow the sauce to warm through and thicken a little, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly with the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Add Parmesan:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce and everything is well combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Final Touches:
Remove from heat and, if you’re using fresh basil, toss it in now.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pasta and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy your creamy cherry tomato pasta with Parmesan!
FAQ for Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta With Parmesan
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, linguine, or even gluten-free options like chickpea or brown rice pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is made with vegetable rennet if you’re looking for a strict vegetarian option. Feel free to omit the red pepper flakes for a milder dish!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk, keeping in mind the sauce will be less rich. For a non-dairy option, use coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture and flavor!
