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Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe

4.9 from 108 reviews

This creamy roasted red pepper pasta combines perfectly roasted and blended red bell peppers with a rich, velvety sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Tossed with al dente pasta and finished with fragrant garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil, this recipe delivers a flavorful, comforting meal that is both visually vibrant and satisfyingly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)

Sauce

  • 2 large red bell peppers (roasted and peeled)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Garnish

  • Fresh basil (for garnish)
  • Additional Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a blender or food processor, blend the roasted and peeled red bell peppers with heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour the blended roasted red pepper sauce into the skillet, stirring in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the roasted red pepper sauce. Toss the pasta well to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  4. Serve: Plate the creamy roasted red pepper pasta while warm. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Roasting and peeling your own red bell peppers adds a smoky sweetness, but you can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience.
  • Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and help it cling better to the pasta.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
  • Fresh basil garnish adds a bright, herbal note—feel free to substitute with parsley if preferred.

Keywords: roasted red pepper pasta, creamy pasta, vegetarian pasta recipe, Italian pasta sauce, easy pasta dinner