Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious! This Cheesy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a creamy Italian delight that will have you coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! With a luscious sauce made from roasted red peppers and cream cheese, this recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will elevate your dinner table. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this dish is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness? Let's get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 jar roasted red peppers, drained
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, drain the roasted red peppers and pat them dry with paper towels. Transfer the peppers to a food processor or blender.
- Add cream cheese, minced garlic, and half of the Parmesan cheese to the food processor with the roasted red peppers. Blend until smooth and creamy, creating a vibrant red sauce.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour the roasted red pepper sauce over the pasta and gently toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy, slightly smoky flavor of the roasted red pepper sauce.
Tips
- Pasta Choice: While any pasta works, opt for shapes like penne or fusilli that hold the sauce well.
- Timing is Key: Start boiling your pasta water while you prepare the sauce to save time.
- Creamy Sauce: If you want an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of milk or heavy cream to the sauce before blending.
- Adjusting Consistency: Always reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid can help thin out your sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Fresh Herbs: For an added burst of flavor, try using fresh herbs like oregano or thyme in addition to basil for garnish.
- Make it a Meal: Pair this pasta with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
