Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta

Creamy and bursting with fresh sweetness this cherry tomato pasta is a delightful weeknight pick that feels indulgent without fuss. The luscious sauce wraps tender pasta shells while juicy bursts of cherry tomatoes add a bright contrast to every bite.

I first made this when I wanted a homemade meal that was both cozy and vibrant. It soon became a go-to when I crave something warm but not too heavy.

Ingredients You Need

• Chicken broth: provides a flavorful base for the sauce choose low sodium for better control of saltiness
• Half and half: offers a creamy texture without being too heavy opt for the freshest you can find
• Soy sauce: adds a subtle umami depth enhancing the overall savoriness
• Dijon mustard: introduces a gentle tang that brightens the sauce
• Honey: balances acidity but can be skipped or adjusted to taste
• Chicken bouillon cube: boosts the savory richness be sure it fully dissolves
• Dried basil oregano parsley and thyme: create a fragrant herb blend for an Italian essence
• Onion powder salt pepper and crushed red pepper flakes: season with complexity and slight heat
• Butter and tomato paste: build the rich flavorful base that binds the sauce
• Garlic minced fresh: for a punch of aroma and depth
• Parmesan cheese freshly grated: is key for authentic sharpness and creaminess
• Cream cheese: softens the sauce making it silky smooth
• Fresh lemon juice: adds a final zing lifting all the flavors
• Shellbow pasta: its hollow shape traps the creamy sauce choose good quality with no cracks
• Cherry tomatoes fresh and firm: halved for juiciness and vibrant color

Detailed Cooking Directions

Combine The Sauce Ingredients:

In a large measuring cup with a spout combine chicken broth half and half soy sauce Dijon mustard honey chicken bouillon cube and all dried herbs along with onion powder salt pepper and red pepper flakes. Set aside for easy pouring.

Build The Flavor Base:

Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium heat then add tomato paste and minced garlic. Stir continuously for one minute until fragrant and combined creating a rich deeply flavored base.

Incorporate The Sauce:

Slowly pour the prepared sauce mixture in small splashes stirring to blend the sauce completely with the tomato paste and butter base.

Cook Pasta In Sauce:

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then add the shellbow pasta. Maintain a gentle boil and cook uncovered according to package directions. Use a silicone spatula to frequently stir and scrape the bottom of the pot preventing pasta from sticking or burning. Taste test pasta for perfect doneness before moving on.

Add Final Ingredients:

Reduce heat to low then gently stir in halved cherry tomatoes and softened cream cheese blending until the cream cheese melts into the sauce. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese and finish with fresh lemon juice to brighten the whole dish.

Season And Serve:

Taste carefully and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture and fresh flavor balance.

One of my favorite parts is adding lemon juice at the end which really lifts the creamy sauce. Cherry tomatoes add so much vibrance they remind me of summer garden lunches shared with family.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or half and half to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the pasta.

Ingredient Variations

Switch chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian or try using coconut milk for a dairy-free creamy twist. Swap shellbow with penne or small rigatoni for different texture or use sun-dried tomatoes for an intense tangy upgrade.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to add a refreshing counterpoint. A crusty baguette on the side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé to complement the herby and creamy notes.

This cherry tomato pasta is a perfect blend of creamy richness and fresh brightness that will become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy it any night of the week with family or friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What pasta works best for this dish?

Small shapes like shellbow, penne, or rotini work well as they hold the creamy sauce and tomatoes nicely.

→ How can I adjust the sauce consistency?

If the sauce feels too thick, gently stir in a little chicken broth or half and half until desired texture is reached.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best served fresh so the tomatoes maintain their texture. If reheating, add a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.

→ What herbs enhance the flavor most?

Basil, oregano, parsley, and thyme complement the tomatoes and cheese, adding aromatic depth to the dish.

→ How do I prevent pasta from sticking while cooking?

Stir frequently and run a spatula along the pot bottom to keep the pasta separate and ensure even cooking.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Soft cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta can work as alternatives, offering similar creaminess with mild flavor changes.