Description
This Creamy Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce is a rich and flavorful Italian-inspired sauce made with roasted red peppers, a blend of cheeses, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for elevating pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables with its smooth, velvety texture and vibrant taste.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Dairy and Liquids
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
Garnish
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Red Peppers with Seasonings: Add the chopped roasted red peppers, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors well.
- Blend Mixture: Transfer the contents of the skillet to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Cream and Cheese: Return the blended sauce to the skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and broth. Cook while stirring often for about 5–7 minutes until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the sauce hot over cooked pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- This sauce pairs beautifully with fettuccine, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- The sauce freezes well in an airtight container for up to 2 months.