Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Experience the effortless elegance of this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta, a dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a restaurant-quality meal. With its vibrant color and silky, velvety texture, this recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you crave something indulgent yet wholesome.

Save

This Italian-inspired dish relies on the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, balanced perfectly by heavy cream and savory Parmesan. It is a comforting bowl of pasta that satisfies both the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) penne or fettuccine
• Roasted Red Peppers: 1 (12 oz/340 g) jar, drained
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
• Yellow Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml) (or plant-based cream)
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25 g) grated, plus extra for serving
• Smoked Paprika: 1/2 tsp
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
• Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) pasta water, then drain.

2. Sauté Aromatics

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

3. Blend the Sauce

Transfer sautéed onion and garlic to a blender or food processor. Add drained roasted red peppers, heavy cream, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Simmer the Sauce

Return the sauce to the skillet over low-medium heat. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Combine

Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve desired consistency.

6. Finish and Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the smoothest sauce possible, use a high-powered blender and make sure the onions are fully softened before blending. Don't skip the step of reserving pasta water; the starch in the water is essential for helping the sauce cling to the noodles and adjusting the final thickness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan-friendly version, simply substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan-style Parmesan cheese. You can easily boost the nutritional profile by adding sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or sliced grilled chicken for added protein.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this vibrant pasta in warm bowls topped with a generous dusting of Parmesan and fresh herbs. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red wine, alongside a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread.

Save

This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a testament to how few ingredients can create a truly sophisticated meal. It is a reliable, comforting dish that brings a touch of luxury to your daily routine.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred?

Yes, you can roast fresh red peppers at home. Simply char them over an open flame or under the broiler until blackened, then peel away the skin and remove seeds. Use about 2-3 large peppers to replicate the 12 oz jarred amount. Fresh peppers will add a slightly different flavor profile but work wonderfully.

→ How do I make this dish vegan?

Replace the heavy cream with plant-based cream (oat, coconut, or cashew cream work well), and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of dairy Parmesan. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious while maintaining all the roasted pepper flavor.

→ What pasta shapes work best?

Penne and fettuccine are excellent choices as they hold the creamy sauce well. Rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti also pair nicely. Choose based on your preference—tube shapes capture more sauce in each bite, while ribbon pastas create an elegant presentation.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

The smoked paprika and red pepper flakes provide gentle heat. Increase the red pepper flakes for more spice, or omit them entirely for a milder sauce. You can also add fresh chili peppers when sautéing the onions for additional kick.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely. Make the sauce up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

→ What proteins pair well with this pasta?

Grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon complement the roasted pepper sauce beautifully. For vegetarian additions, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts add texture and depth.