Description

This creamy roasted red pepper pasta sauce is rich, flavorful, and super easy to make. It blends sweet roasted red peppers with garlic, onion, and a touch of cream for a silky, comforting sauce that’s perfect for pasta night. It’s a great alternative to tomato-based sauces and comes together in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

2 large roasted red bell peppers (jarred or freshly roasted)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooked pasta)
12 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well)

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
Add roasted red peppers, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Transfer mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
Pour the sauce back into the skillet over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan (if using). Heat through.
Add cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For a vegan version, use coconut cream and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
You can use jarred roasted red peppers to save time.
This sauce also works great as a topping for grilled chicken or veggies.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 410
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 40mg