Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta (Blender Sauce)

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to whip up, look no further than this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta (Blender Sauce). The star of this recipe is the velvety roasted red pepper sauce, effortlessly blended to perfection. It’s rich, luscious, and carries a subtle smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with your choice of pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in one bowl.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta (Blender Sauce) recipe deserves a prime spot in your kitchen repertoire for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick and convenient—no need to stand over the stove stirring sauces for ages. With just a blender and a few simple ingredients, you can create a sauce that tastes like you’ve spent hours on it. Second, it’s versatile; you can customize the heat level and creaminess to fit your preferences. Third, roasted red peppers add a depth of flavor and vibrant color that brightens up any pasta dish. Lastly, it’s a great way to sneak some extra vegetables into your meal without sacrificing any indulgence.

What We’re Using

• 8 ounces of pasta – Choose your favorite kind; penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work wonderfully.
• 2 large roasted red peppers – Peeled and seeded for that smoky, sweet base.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds luscious richness and silky texture.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – For a punch of savory aroma.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Enhances the sauce’s smoothness and flavor depth.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To taste, bringing out all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For mild heat and complexity.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a subtle kick if you like it spicy.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Infuses a savory, cheesy finish.
• Fresh basil leaves – For garnish and a fresh herbal note.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Blender – Essential for creating the smooth, creamy roasted red pepper sauce.
• Large pot – For boiling the pasta perfectly al dente.
• Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.
• Spoon or spatula – For mixing the pasta and sauce together.
• Grater – To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese.

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta (Blender Sauce) — Do This Next

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

In your blender, combine the peeled and seeded roasted red peppers, 1 cup of heavy cream, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Blend on high until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Warm the Sauce

Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan and gently warm over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly to the warmed sauce. Toss well to ensure every piece is coated in that luscious creamy roasted red pepper sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese so it melts smoothly into the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Plate your pasta and finish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of this delightful dish.

Better Choices & Swaps

• Pasta alternatives: Swap traditional wheat pasta for gluten-free or whole wheat pasta to suit your dietary needs.
• Heavy cream substitute: Use canned coconut milk for a dairy-free, creamy texture without compromising richness.
• Cheese swap: If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano works beautifully for a sharp, salty kick.
• Roasted red peppers: Use jarred roasted red peppers if you’re short on time; just make sure they’re well-drained to avoid watering down the sauce.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of smoked paprika for deeper smoky flavor.

Avoid These Traps

• Don’t skip peeling and seeding the roasted red peppers; the skins can add an undesirable texture and bitterness.
• Avoid overheating the sauce after blending, as the cream can curdle if cooked on high heat.
• Resist the urge to add too much pasta water at once; add it gradually until the sauce reaches the perfect consistency.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should remain slightly firm to hold up well with the creamy sauce.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid high heat to prevent breaking the sauce.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make the roasted red pepper sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce can be blended and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just warm it gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.

What pasta shapes work best with this sauce?

This creamy roasted red pepper sauce clings well to medium to large pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. However, feel free to use spaghetti or fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from the black pepper and optional red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more flakes or omitting them altogether for a gentler flavor.

Can I substitute Parmesan cheese with a non-dairy option?

Yes, nutritional yeast or a non-dairy cheese alternative works well if you want to keep it dairy-free. Just add it towards the end to maintain that cheesy flavor.

Don’t Miss These

• For a comforting soup with similar smoky flavors, try the Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Bisque Creamy.
• If you love one-pot meals, the One Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini is a must-try.
• Looking for a healthy snack? The Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is flavorful and easy to make.

Hungry for More?

If this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta (Blender Sauce) has your taste buds tingling, explore more simple yet bold recipes that can transform weeknight dinners into memorable meals. From hearty soups to creamy sauces and vibrant dips, there’s always something delicious to discover that’s quick to prepare and packs a punch.

This dish is a wonderful example of how a few quality ingredients and smart techniques can elevate everyday cooking. Next time you want to impress with minimal effort, pull out your blender and create this creamy, smoky roasted red pepper sauce. Your family and friends will thank you!

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