Seriously Amazing Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make, you’ve come to the right place. This Seriously Amazing Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a delightful blend of roasted red peppers, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this dish is a showstopper that comes together in no time. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this roasted red pepper pasta truly special is the balance of rich, creamy flavors and the sweetness from the roasted peppers. The combination of butter, garlic, and onion elevates the dish, while the Parmesan cheese offers a delightful nuttiness. This pasta is not just another meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredient Checklist

To create this Seriously Amazing Roasted Red Pepper Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter – for sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 small onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – for that aromatic flavor.
• 24 oz roasted red peppers – the star of the dish, packed with flavor!
• 1 cup chicken stock or vegetable broth – for the base of the sauce.
• Salt & pepper to taste – seasoning is key!
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil – for a hint of herbal freshness.
• 1/2-3/4 cup heavy cream – to create a luscious, creamy sauce.
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a cheesy finish.
• 8 oz cooked pasta – any shape you prefer!

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen gear:

• Large Pot – for boiling pasta.
• Sauté Pan – for making the sauce.
• Blender or Food Processor – to puree the roasted red peppers.
• Wooden Spoon – for stirring.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.

Seriously Amazing Roasted Red Pepper Pasta, Made Easy

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Blend the Roasted Peppers

While the onion and garlic are cooking, place the drained roasted red peppers in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can pulse it a few times instead.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add the blended roasted red peppers to the sauté pan with the onion and garlic. Pour in 1 cup of chicken stock or vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to heat through but do not let it boil. Add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you want a creamier texture, add more heavy cream or pasta water.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired. Enjoy the flavors of this Seriously Amazing Roasted Red Pepper Pasta!

Substitutions by Diet

If you have specific dietary needs, here are some easy substitutions to customize this recipe:

• Vegetarian – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
• Vegan – Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta of your choice.
• Dairy-Free – Use a dairy-free cream and skip the Parmesan.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Even the best chefs make mistakes, so here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

• Too Thick Sauce – If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
• Underseasoned – Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to ensure the flavors pop!
• Overcooked Pasta – Make sure to cook the pasta al dente since it will cook further when tossed with the hot sauce.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s that good!), here’s how to store and reheat:

• Storing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.

Reader Questions

Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred ones?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh red peppers, roast them in the oven until charred and sweet, then peel and use them in the same quantity as the jarred peppers.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Any pasta shape works well, but longer shapes like fettuccine or linguine are great for coating with the creamy sauce. Short shapes like penne or rotini also work well and hold the sauce nicely!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve to ensure it stays perfectly al dente.

Is this pasta dish spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick if you like some heat!

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love these delicious dishes:

• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

See You at the Table

This Seriously Amazing Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below and let us know how your pasta turned out! Happy cooking!