Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a pasta sauce that’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-simple to make, this Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce is exactly what you need. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality sauce that’s perfect for any busy weeknight dinner. The smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers combined with the richness of cream creates a sauce that’ll coat your pasta beautifully, making each bite a little bit of heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: This roasted red pepper sauce comes together in about 20 minutes, making it a perfect go-to for those days when you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal.
• Versatile: Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, drizzling it over grilled chicken, or adding it to a vegetable stir-fry, this sauce can elevate just about any dish.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of roasted red peppers, garlic, and a touch of cream creates a balanced sauce that’s both smoky and creamy—rich in flavor but light enough for any occasion.
• Customizable: You can adjust the heat, creaminess, or flavor to suit your preferences—this sauce is like a blank canvas that you can make your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing roasted red pepper pasta sauce. The best part? These ingredients are easy to find and come together quickly!

• Roasted Red Peppers: The star of the show! You can use jarred or roasted fresh peppers. They bring a smoky sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing garlic and giving the sauce a silky texture. It’s also great for enhancing the flavor of the peppers.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a beautiful aromatic flavor. It pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the roasted peppers.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient is key to creating the smooth, creamy texture of the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a little extra richness and that salty, umami flavor that makes pasta sauces so irresistible.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the sauce to your taste. Adjust these as you go.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Add a bit of heat if you like your sauce with a kick. You can also use a pinch of cayenne if you want a spicier sauce.

Variations

• Make it Vegan: Skip the cream and use coconut milk or cashew cream for a plant-based alternative. Vegan Parmesan can also replace the regular cheese.
• Extra Veggies: Add some spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrients in the sauce.
• Spicy Version: Kick up the heat by adding some chopped fresh chili peppers or more crushed red pepper flakes.
• Smoky Twist: If you want a deeper smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce.

How to Make Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce

Step 1: Roast or Prepare Your Peppers

If you’re using fresh peppers, roast them under the broiler or on a grill until they’re charred and softened. Once done, peel off the skin and remove the seeds. If you’re using jarred roasted red peppers, you can skip this step and go straight to the next.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Add the Roasted Red Peppers

Next, add your roasted red peppers (fresh or jarred) to the pan with the garlic. Stir them together, and cook for a couple of minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

Once the peppers and garlic are cooked, transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until it’s smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or vegetable broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings

Return the blended sauce to the pan and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to come together. If you’re adding red pepper flakes or other seasonings, now is the time!

Step 6: Toss with Pasta

Once the sauce is creamy and well-combined, toss it with your favorite pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Jarred Peppers for Speed: If you’re in a hurry, jarred roasted red peppers are a huge time-saver without sacrificing flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Cream: The heavy cream is what makes this sauce so creamy and smooth. If you’re trying to make it lighter, opt for half-and-half, but don’t go too light or you’ll lose that richness.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, simply add a little pasta water to loosen it. The starchy water will also help the sauce cling to the pasta better.
• Taste and Adjust: This sauce is very customizable, so always taste it before serving. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or cheese depending on your preference.

How to Serve

This roasted red pepper pasta sauce is a perfect match for all kinds of dishes:

• Pasta: Serve it over your favorite pasta, like penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine. Top with some fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Grilled Chicken: Drizzle it over grilled or roasted chicken for a quick and flavorful dinner.
• Vegetables: This sauce also makes a great topping for roasted vegetables or a veggie stir-fry.
• Bread: Pair it with crusty bread for dipping. It’s a simple way to turn the sauce into a light meal or appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pan over low heat, adding a little water or cream if needed to bring it back to the right consistency.

Freezing

You can also freeze this sauce! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat on the stove for the best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, you may need to add a bit of water or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy state, especially if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use if I don’t have roasted red peppers?
If you don’t have roasted red peppers, you can use fresh red peppers. Just roast them under the broiler or on a grill until charred, then peel and remove the seeds.

Can I use a different type of cream?
Yes, if you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a non-dairy option, coconut milk or cashew cream works well.

Can I use this sauce for things other than pasta?
Absolutely! This sauce is fantastic on grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as a dip for crusty bread. It’s versatile enough for just about any dish that could use a creamy, flavorful sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce is a true game-changer for anyone who loves a creamy, flavorful pasta sauce but doesn’t want to spend all night cooking. It’s rich, vibrant, and perfect for pasta or any dish that needs a little extra something. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together and how big of an impact it has on your meals! Enjoy!

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