Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding a depth of flavor with garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. It’s the perfect balance of savory and tangy, all without being overly complicated. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with any pasta you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe in any kitchen.

Ingredients

2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, sliced
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth (or to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
14 ounces penne pasta
½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
Simmer the sauce: Add the chicken broth to the tomatoes and stir in the fresh oregano leaves and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Serve: Divide the pasta between plates and top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
Herb Variations: Swap fresh oregano for basil, thyme, or rosemary for a different herbal flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to loosen up the sauce as needed. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta with this sauce?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni. Penne just holds the sauce particularly well.

2. Can I make this sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe as written contains gluten, as it calls for penne pasta. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

4. How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add more heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.

5. Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

6. How can I make the sauce richer?

To make the sauce richer, you can add a tablespoon of butter or heavy cream at the end of cooking, giving it a creamy texture.

7. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used in place of fresh cherry tomatoes, although the flavor may be slightly different. Use whole or crushed tomatoes for a similar result.

8. Can I substitute the chicken broth with something else?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, or even water if you prefer a lighter flavor.

9. How can I make this sauce sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a small amount of sugar or honey to the sauce while it simmers to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

10. Can I skip the red pepper flakes?

Yes, you can omit the red pepper flakes if you don’t like spicy food. The sauce will still be delicious without them.

Conclusion

This Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce is a simple yet satisfying dish that captures the essence of fresh ingredients in every bite. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Enjoy the burst of sweet, savory goodness with every mouthful!