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Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta for Cozy Nights In

This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a simple, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights, featuring a rich and creamy sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces ridged rigatoni This pasta holds the creamy sauce beautifully; substitute with penne or fusilli if you prefer.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Adds richness and flavor; feel free to swap with your favorite cooking oil.
  • 4 large garlic cloves Crushed and peeled; adjust for a milder garlic flavor if desired.
  • 15 ounces roasted red peppers The star ingredient for a smoky, sweet sauce.
  • ½ cup heavy cream Creates that luscious, creamy consistency.
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano Brings a hint of herbal goodness.
  • ½ teaspoon Spanish paprika Adds smokiness to the sauce.
  • kosher salt Enhances overall flavors.
  • black pepper Adds a touch of spice.
  • extra red pepper flakes Optional for those who enjoy a little heat.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • blender
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ridged rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, but remember to reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water for later.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the delightful sauce. In a blender, combine the roasted red peppers, crushed garlic cloves, heavy cream, dried oregano, Spanish paprika, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the texture with reserved pasta water if needed for a silkier sauce.
  3. In a large skillet, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Pour in the blended sauce and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained rigatoni directly to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce to ensure it's evenly coated, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed.
  5. Dish the creamy roasted red pepper pasta onto plates or into bowls. For that finishing touch, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. Enjoy warm!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

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