If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor, simple to prepare, and irresistibly creamy, this Roasted Cherry Tomato Burrata Rigatoni is your new go-to. Imagine tender rigatoni pasta tossed in a luscious sauce of sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs, all topped with a dreamy ball of burrata cheese that melts into every bite. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and something special enough for guests. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to showcase the freshness of summer tomatoes or brighten up your dinner any time of year.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This dish works on so many levels. The roasting transforms the cherry tomatoes, intensifying their natural sweetness while adding a subtle caramelized edge. Paired with the creamy, milky burrata, it’s a match made in pasta heaven. Rigatoni’s ridged tube shape is perfect for holding onto every bit of sauce and melted cheese, ensuring each forkful is packed with flavor. It’s easy to make but feels elevated—ideal for casual weeknight dinners or impressing friends without fuss.

The combination of vibrant colors, fresh basil, and the sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients means you’re not stuck with a long grocery list or complicated prep. This is comfort food with a fresh, gourmet twist that anyone can master.

Ingredients at a Glance

12 oz rigatoni pasta – the perfect shape to hold sauce
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – bursting with juicy sweetness
2 tablespoons olive oil – for roasting and flavor
3 cloves garlic, minced – adds pungent warmth
1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a gentle kick
1 teaspoon dried oregano – earthy and herbaceous
8 oz burrata cheese – creamy and luscious centerpiece
Fresh basil leaves – for garnish and freshness
Grated parmesan cheese – to finish with savory depth

Tools & Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: to roast the cherry tomatoes evenly.
Large pot: to boil the rigatoni pasta.
Colander: for draining pasta.
Mixing bowl: to combine pasta and roasted tomatoes.
Wooden spoon or tongs: to toss everything together.
Garlic press or knife: to mince the garlic finely.

Cooking Roasted Cherry Tomato Burrata Rigatoni: The Process

Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Spread them out in a single layer so they roast evenly. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened, caramelized, and bursting with sweet juices.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Roasted Tomatoes

Transfer the drained rigatoni to a large mixing bowl. Add the roasted cherry tomatoes along with all the flavorful juices from the baking sheet. Toss gently to combine. If the mixture seems dry, splash in some reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky sauce.

Step 4: Add the Burrata Cheese

Place the burrata cheese on top of the pasta. You can either break it up slightly so it melts into the warm rigatoni or leave it whole for guests to cut into themselves. The burrata’s creamy center will melt beautifully, coating the pasta in a rich, luscious layer.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Scatter fresh basil leaves over the pasta and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm and gooey for the very best experience.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

Replace burrata with a vegan cashew cream cheese or a store-bought vegan mozzarella alternative for a dairy-free option.
Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese to add cheesy flavor without dairy.
Ensure the pasta is egg-free if you want to keep the dish fully vegan—many rigatoni options are naturally vegan, but always check labels.
For added plant-based protein, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.

Flavor Logic

This dish is a celebration of contrasts and complements. Roasting the cherry tomatoes amplifies their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized complexity that fresh tomatoes alone can’t match. Garlic infuses the olive oil with subtle pungency, while oregano lends an earthy, herbal note that ties the flavors together.

The burrata is the star player, its creamy and delicate texture smoothing out the acidity of the tomatoes and adding indulgence. Rigatoni’s ridges and hollow tubes are ideal for catching these luscious bites of sauce and cheese. Finally, fresh basil brightens the dish with a peppery, minty freshness, and parmesan adds a salty, umami pop that rounds out every forkful.

Best Ways to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Because burrata is best enjoyed fresh, it’s recommended to add fresh cheese only when serving leftovers, or substitute with shredded mozzarella for storing.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Fresh basil should be added right before serving to retain its vibrant color and flavor.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal because of its shape that holds the sauce well, penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can work beautifully with the roasted cherry tomato and burrata combination.

Is it necessary to roast the cherry tomatoes?

Roasting enhances the flavor by caramelizing the natural sugars and softening the tomatoes, which creates a richer and more complex sauce. You could use fresh tomatoes for a lighter, fresher taste, but roasting really elevates the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can roast the tomatoes and cook the pasta a few hours before serving, but it’s best to combine everything and add burrata just before eating to maintain the creamy texture and fresh flavors.

What’s the best way to serve this dish for a dinner party?

Serve the pasta directly from a large bowl or platter, placing the burrata on top for a dramatic effect. Pair it with a simple green salad or a Burrata Salad for a fresh starter, and consider offering crusty bread or a Roasted Tomato Zucchini Bruschetta Board to round out the meal beautifully.

Similar Recipes

Burrata Salad – a fresh and creamy way to enjoy burrata cheese with seasonal vegetables.
Roasted Tomato Zucchini Bruschetta Board – a colorful appetizer featuring roasted tomatoes and fresh zucchini on toasted bread.

Final Bite

There’s something truly special about pasta dishes that feel effortless yet sophisticated, and this Roasted Cherry Tomato Burrata Rigatoni fits the bill perfectly. It’s vibrant, creamy, and packed with fresh, familiar flavors that comfort and delight. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe delivers big on taste with minimal fuss. The magic of roasted tomatoes, creamy burrata, and perfectly cooked rigatoni comes together in a dish that’s both elegant and approachable—a match you’ll want to make again and again.

Give this recipe a try and savor every bite of that luscious, cheesy, tomato-packed goodness!

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