Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s both comforting and vibrant, Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is your new go-to. This luscious recipe combines the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with a silky cream sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. It’s a simple, elegant meal that feels indulgent but comes together in less than 30 minutes — making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. Plus, it’s flexible enough to pair beautifully with a side like a Roasted Pepper And Feta Salad or to enhance with proteins if you’re looking to elevate it further.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta lies in its balance. Roasted red peppers bring a deep, smoky sweetness that’s amplified by the garlic and Italian seasoning, creating layers of flavor without overpowering the dish. The heavy cream adds a rich, velvety texture that beautifully coats each strand of pasta. Olive oil enriches the sauce and helps meld the ingredients together. The final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese introduces a nutty, salty finish, while fresh basil adds a burst of herbal brightness. This combination results in a satisfying meal with a gourmet feel that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredient Rundown

• 12 oz pasta of choice: Whether you prefer penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, any pasta works well to soak up the creamy sauce.
• 2 cups roasted red peppers: Use jarred for convenience or roast your own for extra smoky flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and rich.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds smoothness and helps sauté the garlic.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that punch of aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
• Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste to highlight the flavors.
• Parmesan cheese: For grating on top, it adds a savory, cheesy finish.
• Fresh basil: Garnish with torn leaves for a fresh, herbal note.

Essential Tools for Success

• Large pot: For boiling pasta to al dente perfection.
• High-speed blender or food processor: To puree the roasted red peppers into a smooth sauce base.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the garlic and combine the sauce with pasta.
• Colander: For draining pasta without losing any of that precious starchy water.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce gently and evenly.

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta — Do This Next

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred 12 oz of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

While the pasta cooks, add 2 cups of roasted red peppers to a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Combine the Sauce

Pour the pureed roasted red peppers into the skillet with garlic. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Season and Adjust

Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss well to coat every piece with the creamy roasted red pepper sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Divide pasta among plates or bowls. Generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for an inviting finish.

Variations by Season

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus tips for a burst of green and sweetness.
• Summer: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes for added brightness.
• Fall: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or roasted butternut squash for earthiness.
• Winter: Stir in cooked greens like kale or spinach to add warmth and nutrition.

Avoid These Traps

• Don’t overcook your pasta. Al dente texture is key for the best mouthfeel.
• Avoid using low-quality jarred peppers that can be overly salty or vinegary.
• Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it’s essential for adjusting sauce consistency.
• Be cautious with the garlic; burnt garlic turns bitter and can overpower the delicate sauce.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk and gently warm on the stovetop to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Freezing is possible but may alter the texture of the cream sauce; if you choose to freeze, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly with additional liquid to prevent the sauce from separating.

Handy Q&A

Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred?

Absolutely! Roasting your own red peppers adds a deeper, smokier flavor. Simply roast them under the broiler or on a grill until charred, then peel off the skin before blending.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What pasta shape works best for this sauce?

Any pasta that holds sauce well is ideal. Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine are excellent choices because their shapes allow the creamy sauce to cling nicely.

Can I add protein to make it a fuller meal?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu are fantastic additions. For a tasty twist, try our Chicken And Roasted Red Pepper Pasta recipe that incorporates tender chicken for extra heartiness.

Cook This Next

• Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil — for a bright, summery complement to your creamy pasta nights.
• Roasted Pepper And Feta Salad — pairs beautifully with this dish for a well-rounded meal.

Make It Tonight

Ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy, flavorful pasta? This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta comes together quickly with pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, it’s a luscious dish that satisfies cravings and invites seconds. Gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite playlist, and whip up this silky, smoky pasta tonight!

This flavorful recipe is a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation, delivering creamy indulgence with a fresh twist. Enjoy every bite!

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