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Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

creamy roasted red pepper pasta - featured image

A quick and easy creamy roasted red pepper pasta recipe that combines smoky, sweet, and rich flavors for a comforting homemade dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups roasted red peppers, jarred or freshly roasted
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ small onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (9-11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add ½ finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. In a blender or food processor, combine 2 cups roasted red peppers, 1 cup heavy cream, and ½ cup parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add ¼ cup broth to loosen. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the blended sauce into the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently for 3-5 minutes. Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired sauce consistency.
  5. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Let pasta soak up flavors for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on the side.

Notes

If sauce starts to separate, reduce heat and add a splash of broth or cream while whisking. For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and parmesan with nutritional yeast. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy roasted red pepper pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, comfort food, homemade pasta sauce