Name: Pan-Blistered Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 Roma tomatoes Roma tomatoes; 8 oz mezzi rigatoni; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 clove garlic; 1/4 cup fresh basil; 1/4 cup grated parmesan; 1/2 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; pinch red pepper flakes; 1/2 tsp is g u lg Italian seasoning

Sometimes all you need is a simple pasta dinner made with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor. This pan-blistered tomato basil sauce starts with Roma tomatoes seared cut-side down until blistered and soft, then mashed right in the pan with garlic, Italian seasoning and fresh basil. Tossed with mezzi rigatoni and Parmesan, this easy tomato basil pasta is ready in about 25 minutes.

For a creamy version, try my Easy 10-Minute Creamy Tomato Sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Pasta

Fresh tomatoes, no jarred sauce needed.
Ready in 25 minutes.
Simple pantry ingredients with big flavor.
Glossy, Parmesan-coated pasta in every bite.

Ingredients for Pan-Blistered Tomato Basil Sauce

The Sauce

Halved Roma tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning.

The Pasta

Mezzi rigatoni, fresh basil and grated Parmesan.

Dietary note: This pasta is vegetarian. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free dinner.

How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Cook the pasta in well-salted boiling water until al dente.

Step 2: Blister the tomatoes

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the tomatoes cut side down and cook 4 to 5 minutes without moving until blistered and soft.

Step 3: Mash into a sauce

Remove the skins and mash the tomatoes right in the pan.

Step 4: Season

Add the garlic and seasonings and cook 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant, then stir in the basil.

Step 5: Toss

Add the pasta and sprinkle in Parmesan until the sauce turns glossy and coats the pasta.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Don’t move the tomatoes. Leaving them alone gives the best blister and flavor.
Tear the basil instead of chopping to keep it fragrant.
Save pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Make it richer with burrata or extra cheese on top.

Make It Your Own

Burrata: Top with a ball of burrata.
Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp.
Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes.
Greens: Stir in spinach at the end.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: This pasta is best fresh, but you can halve the tomatoes and mince the garlic a day ahead.

What to Serve With Tomato Basil Pasta

Serve with garlic bread, a green salad or The Best Air Fryer Chicken.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat on the stove with a splash of water.

What People Ask About Tomato Basil Pasta

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes. Any shape works, but tubes like rigatoni hold the sauce best.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

The skins slip right off after blistering, which gives a smoother sauce.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Fresh Romas give the best flavor, but canned whole tomatoes work in a pinch.

How do I make tomato basil pasta creamier?

Add a splash of cream or top with burrata.