Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe

why make this recipe

Tomato Butter Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that brings the fresh flavors of summer right to your table. It is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The combination of cherry tomatoes, butter, and fresh basil creates a rich and savory sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta. This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing, thanks to the vibrant colors of the ingredients.

how to make Tomato Butter Pasta

Ingredients :

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or any preferred type)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions :

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and starting to burst.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

how to serve Tomato Butter Pasta

Serve Tomato Butter Pasta hot, right after you combine the ingredients. You can top it with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

how to store Tomato Butter Pasta

If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or heat it gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or extra butter to loosen the sauce.

tips to make Tomato Butter Pasta

  • Use high-quality cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
  • Adding crushed red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.
  • You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.

variation (if any)

You can easily customize Tomato Butter Pasta. For instance, adding cooked chicken or shrimp can turn this into a heartier meal. If you’re looking for a vegan option, substitute the butter with olive oil and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

What can I serve with Tomato Butter Pasta?

This pasta goes well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a light soup. It’s versatile enough to pair with many dishes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Just combine and reheat before serving.

Plate of Tomato Butter Pasta garnished with fresh herbs and cheese

Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe

This simple yet flavorful tomato butter pasta recipe combines ripe tomatoes, rich butter, and al dente pasta for a comforting and quick meal. It's a perfect weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Grater

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 340 g Pasta (e.g., spaghetti, penne)
  • 794 g Canned crushed tomatoes
  • 113 g Unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 Small onion finely diced
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for serving
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted water, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté the diced onion until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Reduce the heat to low, add the unsalted butter to the sauce, and stir constantly until it has fully melted and the sauce looks creamy.
  • Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider using San Marzano tomatoes. Don't forget to reserve some pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.

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