There’s something truly special about a bowl of Tomato Butter Pasta that warms the heart and fills the belly. With its vibrant hues of red and golden, adorned with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is nothing short of a hug in a bowl. The buttery sauce dances beautifully with luscious cherry tomatoes, creating a delightful balance of flavors that feels wonderfully indulgent. I often make this on those cozy evenings when all I want is something comforting and satisfying.
This Tomato Butter Pasta comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have a lot of time. It’s versatile enough to work with whatever ingredients you have on hand, and the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as enjoyable the next day. Trust me, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
Why I Love Tomato Butter Pasta
Tomato Butter Pasta is truly a winner at my table! It hits that sweet spot of being incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, which, let’s be honest, is a lifesaver during hectic weeks. The elegant combination of flavors elevates this dish from simple to absolutely splendid, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. You’ll find this dish becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!
Tomato Butter Pasta Ingredients
The magic of this Tomato Butter Pasta truly lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. Let’s dive into what makes this dish shine! Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Core Ingredients and Their Roles
- 12 oz SPAGHETTI: This is the heart of the dish, offering a perfect base to soak up that luscious sauce.
- 4 tablespoons UNSALTED BUTTER: Essential for creating that rich, creamy sauce that brings everything together.
- 2 cups CHERRY TOMATOES, halved: These little gems pack a mighty punch of sweetness and acidity.
- 4 cloves GARLIC, minced: The aromatic backbone that adds depth and a lovely fragrance.
- ½ teaspoon RED PEPPER FLAKES (optional): For those who like a little kick, this adds a wonderful heat.
- ¾ teaspoon SALT: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon BLACK PEPPER: A touch of spice to elevate this comforting recipe.
- ½ cup FRESH BASIL, chopped: This bright herb adds a fresh, vibrant touch that’s just irresistible!
- ½ cup GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE (plus more for serving): Adds a creamy, salty richness that elevates every bite.
- Zest of 1 LEMON: A zing of citrus that brightens up the dish and balances the richness.
Substitutions and Tips
Need a swap? Here are some ideas to switch things up if you’re missing an ingredient:
- Pasta Type: Feel free to use any pasta shape you love, from penne to fettuccine—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Butter: Olive oil can work in a pinch, though it won’t be quite as rich.
- Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes can substitute fresh, just use about 1 cup of crushed tomatoes and adjust the cooking time.
- Basil: If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil will do. Use about 1 teaspoon.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Skillet (12-inch recommended)
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Zester (for lemon zesting, optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Tomato Butter Pasta
Let’s dive into creating this wonderfully comforting Tomato Butter Pasta. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, and you’ll see how easy it is to whip up a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for that perfect blend of buttery richness mixed with the sweet burst of tomatoes.
Cook the Pasta to Perfection
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your SPAGHETTI according to package instructions until al dente. First, be sure to save about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining!
Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, melt the UNSALTED BUTTER over medium heat. This will create the base for your sauce, bathing everything in that lovely creamy goodness.
Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the MINCED GARLIC and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Then, toss in the HALVED CHERRY TOMATOES.
Embrace the Juiciness of Tomatoes
Cook the tomatoes for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. This step is key for building flavor!
Season the Sauce
Add the RED PEPPER FLAKES, SALT, and BLACK PEPPER to the mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything well to coat the pasta in that delicious sauce. You’ll want each strand of spaghetti drenched in goodness!
Adjust the Consistency
Add the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency of the sauce. This is where you can make the dish your own—thicker or thinner, it’s all about preference!
Add Fresh Flavor
Stir in the FRESH BASIL, GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE, and LEMON ZEST. Toss until the cheese melts and everything is heated through. The fresh basil scents will take this dish to another level.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve immediately with extra PARMESAN CHEESE on top for that extra touch of indulgence. Grab some forks and dig in; it’s a beautiful sight!
How to Store Tomato Butter Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers (which is a rarity in my house!), this Tomato Butter Pasta stores well. You can keep it at room temperature for about an hour, but then it’s best to refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can freeze it for 2-3 months; just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil to bring it back to life.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the tomatoes and cheese.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; al dente is key!
- Add the reserved pasta water gradually; you can always add more if needed, but it’s hard to take away!
- Finish with a drizzle of good olive oil for an extra touch of richness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with a crusty piece of garlic bread to absorb every last bit of sauce.
- Complement with a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful pairing.
- Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
This Tomato Butter Pasta has become such a comforting classic in my kitchen, and I hope it brings you just as much joy as it has for me. Happy cooking!
