There’s something truly magical about roasted red peppers. They’re smoky, sweet, and full of flavor that makes anything taste like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. When you combine their bold flavor with pasta, you get a creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying meal. Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is an easy dish to whip up, yet it feels indulgent enough to serve on a special night. Whether you're feeding your family or impressing a date, this pasta dish will win hearts and appetites.
Get ready to turn a few simple ingredients into a dinner so delicious your taste buds will dance.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistibly creamy and flavorful pasta dish:
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (penne, linguine, or spaghetti all work well)
- 3 large red bell peppers
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (or unsweetened coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly
- Fresh parsley or additional basil for garnish
Optional Additions
For variety, you can toss in grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even some pan-seared shrimp for extra deliciousness.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Red Peppers
Begin by roasting the peppers for that sought-after smoky flavor. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the red peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the skins are charred and blistered.
Once roasted, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. This traps the steam, making the skins easier to remove. After about 10 minutes, peel off the skins, remove the seeds and stems, and roughly chop the roasted peppers.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the peppers are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Blend the Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, sautéed onion and garlic, smoked paprika, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a bit of texture in your sauce, pulse the blender a few times instead of going full puree.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Transfer the blended sauce back to the skillet. Simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes. Add pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency; it should be creamy but not overly thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until evenly coated. Feel free to add more pasta water if necessary to make it silky and smooth.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Roasted Red Pepper Pasta warm, garnished with your choice of Parmesan, fresh basil, and parsley. Pair it with a side salad or a slice of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Customizing Your Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
- Add Protein: Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon to add a hearty touch to the dish.
- Go Veggie: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini would blend beautifully with the roasted red pepper sauce.
- Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, be generous with the red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter or vegan alternative to cream. Opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly garnish.
Final Thoughts
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is one of those dishes that's so simple yet so full of flavor, you'll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner. It’s colorful, creamy, and satisfying all on its own or with endless upgrade options. Next time you're craving a comforting yet fancy pasta dinner, this recipe will be your go-to.
Once you’ve made it, come back to this recipe and try some of the customizations. Who knows? You just might stumble upon a new family favorite!
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