Name: Tomato Butter Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Zest of 1 lemon

Jump to Recipe

Tomato Butter Pasta is the kind of dish that turns a simple dinner into something deeply satisfying. With a short ingredient list and a cozy, rich sauce, this recipe brings together pantry staples and fresh produce for a meal that feels thoughtful without feeling complicated. Tomato Butter Pasta works beautifully for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, or anytime you want comfort food that still tastes fresh. The balance of sweet tomatoes, creamy butter, and fragrant basil creates a pasta bowl that feels familiar, filling, and incredibly reliable.

Story

Tomato Butter Pasta has always reminded me why Italian-inspired cooking feels so comforting. I first made Tomato Butter Pasta on a rushed evening, expecting something ordinary, yet the result surprised me with its depth and warmth. As the tomatoes softened into butter, the kitchen filled with a mellow, savory aroma that signaled real comfort food. Over time, Tomato Butter Pasta became my go-to when I wanted something calming but still flavorful, especially when vegetarian pasta dishes felt repetitive.

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup fresh basil, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Zest of 1 lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic cloves, chop the fresh basil, and zest the lemon before starting so everything stays within reach. Measure the butter, seasonings, and cheese ahead of time to keep the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Cooking Instructions

Boil the pasta in well-salted water until al dente, then reserve pasta water before draining. Melt butter in a skillet, cook garlic briefly, add tomatoes, and sauté until juicy. Season, toss in pasta, adjust with pasta water, and finish with basil, Parmesan, and lemon zest for a silky garlic basil sauce.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid browning the butter or overcooking the garlic, since both can introduce bitterness. Stir gently once the tomatoes soften, and always add pasta water gradually to keep the sauce smooth rather than soupy.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use ripe cherry tomatoes for natural sweetness, and grate Parmesan fresh for better texture. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds balance, while lemon zest brightens the butter without overpowering the dish.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Tomato Butter Pasta hot with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Pair it with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete quick dinner that still feels intentional.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or butter to revive the sauce.

Conclusion

Tomato Butter Pasta proves that comfort food does not need complexity. With minimal effort and thoughtful ingredients, this recipe delivers warmth, balance, and satisfaction in every forkful, making it a staple worth repeating.

Discover more delicious recipes by following me on Facebook and Pinterest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh cherry tomatoes give better texture and sweetness. If using canned tomatoes, drain them well and reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent excess moisture.

Is Tomato Butter Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Tomato Butter Pasta works well for short-term meal prep and reheats nicely within a few days, though the sauce tastes best when freshly made.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work well, but short shapes like rigatoni also hold the sauce nicely, especially for Italian cuisine–inspired meals.