Description
This easy-to-bake cherry tomato spaghetti sauce recipe is bursting with sweet and tangy flavors from perfectly roasted tomatoes. Follow our step-by-step guide to make the best, most flavorful homemade pasta sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 4–5 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 6–8 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 small onion or 2 shallots, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, plus more for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
- Cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, for serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prep the Tomatoes & Aromatics: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, combine cherry tomatoes, peeled garlic cloves, and chopped onion/shallot. Drizzle generously with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Spread in a single layer.
- Roast for Sweetness: Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes are bursting, slightly charred, and aromatics are tender and golden.
- Simmer to Perfection: Transfer roasted mixture (including pan juices) to a medium saucepan. Add fresh basil and water/broth. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Use a potato masher to gently crush some tomatoes, creating a saucier consistency. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve with Your Favorite Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water. Drain pasta, then add directly to the sauce. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a glossy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins