Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe

This roasted tomato pasta sauce is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. By roasting fresh tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and herbs, you bring out their natural sweetness and create a deep, caramelized flavor. This homemade sauce is perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on pizza, or serving as a dip for crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, deep flavor – Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Healthier than store-bought – No preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• Easy to make – Just roast, blend, and enjoy!
• Versatile – Use it for pasta, pizza, soups, or dipping.
• Freezer-friendly – Make a big batch and store for later.

Ingredients

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

• Fresh tomatoes (Roma, cherry, or heirloom)
• Garlic cloves, peeled
• Onion, quartered
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Balsamic vinegar (for added depth, optional)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the tomatoes – Slice tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet along with the garlic and onion.
3. Season – Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast – Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
5. Blend – Transfer the roasted tomatoes, garlic, and onion to a blender or food processor. Add balsamic vinegar (if using) and blend until smooth or leave slightly chunky for texture.
6. Simmer (optional) – For a thicker, more concentrated sauce, pour the blended mixture into a pot and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve – Toss with your favorite pasta, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 4 cups of sauce
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper before roasting.
• Creamy Tomato Sauce – Stir in heavy cream or cashew cream for a richer texture.
• Chunky Style – Skip blending for a rustic, chunky sauce.
• Herb-Infused – Add fresh thyme or rosemary while roasting for extra flavor.
• Extra Umami – Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or grated Parmesan cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

What type of tomatoes work best?

Roma, cherry, or heirloom tomatoes are ideal since they have a good balance of sweetness and acidity.

Can I make this sauce without roasting?

Yes, but roasting enhances the flavor. If skipping, sauté the tomatoes in olive oil until they break down.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

No, roasting softens the skins, and blending creates a smooth sauce. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the sauce after blending.

Can I add meat to this sauce?

Absolutely! Brown ground beef, sausage, or pancetta before adding the sauce to the pan.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer it longer after blending to reduce excess liquid.

Is this sauce vegan?

Yes! It’s naturally vegan and can be used in plant-based dishes.

What pasta pairs best with this sauce?

It works well with spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, and even homemade ravioli.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes! Use dried oregano and basil in the roasting step and fresh basil for garnish.

What else can I use this sauce for?

Try it on pizza, roasted veggies, as a dipping sauce, or in soups.

How do I balance acidity in the sauce?

If the sauce is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or more balsamic vinegar.

Conclusion

This homemade roasted tomato pasta sauce is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your pasta dishes. The roasting process brings out the best flavors, making it far superior to store-bought versions. Whether you enjoy it chunky or smooth, spicy or creamy, this sauce is a must-try for any pasta lover. Enjoy it fresh or freeze a batch for easy meals later!

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