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Easy One-Pan Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta Recipe with Garlic Brown Butter

one-pan burst cherry tomato pasta - featured image

A simple, flavorful one-pan pasta dish featuring garlic-infused brown butter and burst cherry tomatoes cooked together with pasta for a quick and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 300g) cherry tomatoes, halved if large
  • 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
  • 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: halve the cherry tomatoes if large, mince the garlic, and tear the basil leaves. Measure out butter, broth, and pasta.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Cook until it foams and turns golden with brown flecks (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add olive oil and cherry tomatoes. Stir gently and cook for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes soften and burst.
  5. Pour in broth and immediately add dry pasta, pressing it down to submerge. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Remove from heat and fold in torn basil leaves. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Watch the butter carefully to avoid burning; add garlic only when butter is golden and stir briefly. Stir pasta frequently while cooking to prevent sticking. Use fresh cherry tomatoes for best bursting effect. Adjust broth amount if sauce is too thick or thin. Fresh basil adds brightness; Parmesan is optional. For vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine and omit cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan pasta, burst cherry tomatoes, garlic brown butter, easy pasta recipe, weeknight dinner, quick pasta, comfort food