Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Absolutely. Grape tomatoes work just as well. Slice them in half and proceed exactly as you would with cherry tomatoes. The flavor and texture will be just as sweet and delicious.

Will this recipe work with large tomatoes?

Yes, you can use larger tomatoes if that’s what you have. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and keep an eye on them in the oven, as they may take a bit longer to roast fully.

Can I roast the tomatoes ahead of time for a party?

Definitely. Roasted cherry tomatoes are perfect for making ahead—they’re delicious served warm, at room temperature, or even cold. In fact, the flavors deepen as they sit, making them ideal party fare.

How do I keep the tomatoes from becoming too watery?

For the best caramelization, halve your tomatoes and place them cut side up, allowing excess moisture to evaporate. Using a hot oven (400°F) is key, and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Name: Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh minced herbs such as parsley, basil or chives; Cooking spray

There’s just something magical about cherry tomatoes that have been roasted to perfection—their flavor deepens, their juices become sweet and almost jammy, and they take on a gorgeous caramelization that makes them simply irresistible. This Roasted Cherry Tomatoes recipe is the kind of dish that feels gourmet, yet it’s shockingly simple and speedy to prepare. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and about 35 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have an unbelievably delicious side, appetizer, or topping that brightens up any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimum fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Easy: If you can slice a tomato and drizzle oil, you’re already halfway there. This recipe is as straightforward as they come—no complicated steps or fancy techniques required.
Flavor Explosion: Roasting transforms ordinary cherry tomatoes into tiny flavor bombs—sweet, garlicky, and touched with fragrant Italian herbs, with a latest pop of fresh-from-the-garden vibrancy from minced herbs.
Super Versatile: Whether you want an elegant appetizer for guests or a no-brainer way to jazz up pasta, toast, salads, or bowls, this roasted tomato recipe delivers every time.
Quick & Minimal Cleanup: One pan, a short ingredient list, and you’re done. The best kind of weeknight cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down the key players and how each one contributes to this delicious dish:

Cherry Tomatoes: The star of the show! Use the ripest, juiciest cherry tomatoes you can find. Halving them concentrates and caramelizes their natural sweetness.
Olive Oil: Helps the tomatoes roast evenly, adds beautiful richness, and brings out all the subtle flavors.
Minced Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable—mellowed by roasting, it infuses the tomatoes with a mild, aromatic kick.
Italian Seasoning: A classic blend (think basil, oregano, thyme, and more) that gives that Mediterranean character you crave.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for drawing out the tomatoes’ juices and brightening the whole dish.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Basil, or Chives): These are for a finishing touch—sprinkle them on just before serving for color and an extra burst of freshness.
Cooking Spray or Oil: Just enough to keep everything from sticking and to encourage that lovely caramelization.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feel like changing things up? This recipe loves a bit of creativity:

Balsamic Upgrade: Drizzle a splash of good balsamic vinegar or reduction over the tomatoes before or after roasting for tangy-sweet complexity.
Spicy Kick: Crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne can take these tomatoes in a zestier direction.
Cheesy Addition: Top your finished tomatoes with a scatter of crumbled feta, goat cheese, or shavings of Parmesan for creamy, salty contrast.
Roasted Veggie Mix: Roast alongside sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions for a vibrant, savory medley.

Don’t be afraid to swap in whatever fresh herbs you love or have on hand—think thyme, dill, or tarragon.

How to Make Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Give your baking sheet a quick spritz of cooking spray or a thin coat of oil. This keeps the tomatoes from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

Step 2: Slice and Arrange

Halve each cherry tomato and lay the pieces cut-side up in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. The goal is for them to roast, not steam, so give them a little breathing room!

Step 3: Season and Toss

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until everything is nicely combined. Drizzle this mixture over the tomatoes, then gently toss with your hands or a spatula so every tomato gets a bit of that herby, garlicky love.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tomatoes are soft, collapsing in on themselves, and have begun to brown and caramelize at the edges.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the roasted tomatoes with a handful of minced fresh herbs just before serving. This adds color, a burst of brightness, and a touch of elegance—however you plan to serve them.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Ripe Tomatoes: The riper and juicier your tomatoes, the sweeter and more flavorful the result.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread out your tomatoes so they roast and caramelize. If they’re too close, they’ll steam and won’t develop that lovely color.
Go Heavy on Herbs: Fresh herbs make the simplest dishes shine. Don’t skip the garnish!
Let Them Cool Slightly: Rest the tomatoes for a few minutes after roasting. This helps the juices thicken and the flavors meld.

How to Serve

These roasted cherry tomatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm as a colorful appetizer straight from the pan, or spoon them onto toasted crusty bread for a simple yet unforgettable bruschetta. They’re right at home atop pasta, stirred into risottos, tucked inside omelets, or layered over grilled meats and fish. Toss them into salads for bursts of sweetness and acidity, or serve alongside creamy cheeses at a party. Honestly, there are few wrong ways to enjoy them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavor only gets better as the tomatoes marinate in their garlicky oil.

Freezing

Roasted cherry tomatoes freeze surprisingly well. Cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy them in soups, sauces, or on toast.

Reheating

To revive that just-roasted flavor, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible; the oven keeps their texture and flavor truer to when they were freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Absolutely. Grape tomatoes work just as well. Slice them in half and proceed exactly as you would with cherry tomatoes. The flavor and texture will be just as sweet and delicious.
Will this recipe work with large tomatoes?

Yes, you can use larger tomatoes if that’s what you have. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and keep an eye on them in the oven, as they may take a bit longer to roast fully.
Can I roast the tomatoes ahead of time for a party?

Definitely. Roasted cherry tomatoes are perfect for making ahead—they’re delicious served warm, at room temperature, or even cold. In fact, the flavors deepen as they sit, making them ideal party fare.
How do I keep the tomatoes from becoming too watery?

For the best caramelization, halve your tomatoes and place them cut side up, allowing excess moisture to evaporate. Using a hot oven (400°F) is key, and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Final Thoughts

Roasted cherry tomatoes are proof that the simplest recipes can deliver the biggest rewards. With just a few humble ingredients and a few minutes of hands-on effort, you get a dish that’s bursting with color, flavor, and endless possibility. Try this recipe once, and it will become your trusty go-to for jazzing up meals, impressing friends, or just celebrating the gorgeous taste of tomatoes at their peak. Happy roasting!