Description
Discover how to make the best cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with this step-by-step recipe. It’s easy to bake and packed with amazing flavor!
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 6–8 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan)
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Tomatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread cherry tomatoes and unpeeled garlic cloves on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss gently to coat.
- Roast for Flavor: Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes have burst, softened, and are slightly caramelized. Garlic cloves should be tender.
- Mash & Season: Remove from oven. Squeeze roasted garlic from skins onto the tomatoes. Using a fork or potato masher, gently mash the tomatoes and garlic directly on the baking sheet until a rustic, chunky sauce forms. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Finish & Serve: Transfer mashed sauce to a serving bowl. Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Toss with cooked spaghetti and serve immediately, drizzling with extra olive oil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins