Cherry Tomato Sauce and Bella Mushrooms on Pasta
A vibrant, rustic pasta dish featuring sweet blistered cherry tomatoes and deeply savory bella (cremini) mushrooms tossed in a silky garlic-herb sauce. This recipe is simple yet elegant — perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The natural sweetness of tomatoes balances beautifully with the earthy richness of mushrooms, all wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Pasta
12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cherry Tomato & Mushroom Sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz (225g) bella (cremini) mushrooms, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
¼ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add salt and pasta.
Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Mushrooms
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced bella mushrooms in a single layer.
Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until golden.
Stir and cook another 3 minutes until tender.
Tip: Avoid overcrowding to get beautifully browned mushrooms.
Add Garlic & Tomatoes
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, chili flakes, and oregano.
Cook 5–7 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.
Lightly press some tomatoes with a spoon to create a rustic sauce.
Combine Everything
Add drained pasta to the skillet.
Pour in reserved pasta water.
Toss well to coat evenly.
Stir in butter (optional) and Parmesan.
Add fresh basil and mix gently.
Serve
Plate immediately.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
Flavor Profile
Sweet & bright from cherry tomatoes
Earthy & savory from bella mushrooms
Aromatic from garlic
Fresh herbal finish
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead?
Yes, but fresh cherry tomatoes give the best sweetness and texture. If using canned, choose whole peeled tomatoes and crush them.
2. Can I make it creamy?
Absolutely! Add ¼ cup heavy cream or 2 tablespoons cream cheese for a creamy variation.
3. Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes. To make it vegan, skip Parmesan or use plant-based cheese and omit butter.
4. What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken
Shrimp
Italian sausage
White beans or chickpeas (vegetarian option)
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
NutrientAmount
Calories:380–420 kcal
Protein:12–15 g
Carbohydrates:55–60 g
Fiber:4–6 g
Fat:14–16 g
Saturated Fat:4 g
Sodium:350–450 mg