Roasted Red Pepper Penne with Parmesan Cream

Roasted Red Pepper Penne with Parmesan Cream is a luxurious yet simple pasta dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of roasted red peppers combined with the rich silkiness of a Parmesan cream sauce. The result? A velvety, smoky, and slightly tangy pasta that tastes like something straight out of a fine Italian trattoria.

This dish beautifully balances sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of smokiness — making it perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. The roasted peppers add depth and color, while the Parmesan cream gives every bite a luscious, savory finish.

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a stunning example of how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. The roasted red peppers lend a naturally sweet and slightly smoky note that pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy sauce.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

The sauce clings beautifully to the penne, creating a comforting bite every time. It’s quick to prepare, visually gorgeous with its blush-orange hue, and tastes luxurious without being heavy. It’s my go-to dish when I want something elegant yet comforting — a true crowd-pleaser.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try this dish because:

• It’s creamy, smoky, and deeply flavorful — yet refreshingly light.
• Roasted red peppers make it unique compared to standard tomato or Alfredo sauces.
• It’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, yet looks and tastes restaurant-worthy.
• Perfect for vegetarians and customizable for non-vegetarians.
• It’s a showstopper dish for weeknight dinners, date nights, or entertaining guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 460 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Dinner / Lunch

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300 g (10 oz) penne pasta
• Water for boiling
• 1 tablespoon salt

For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

• 2 large roasted red bell peppers (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional for thinning)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Cracked black pepper

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Boil pasta until al dente.
2. Blend roasted red peppers into a smooth purée.
3. Cook garlic and onions, then add the pepper purée and cream.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season well.
5. Toss pasta with the creamy roasted red pepper sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasted Red Pepper Purée

1. If using jarred roasted red peppers, drain and pat them dry.
2. Blend roasted red peppers in a blender or food processor until smooth.
3. Set aside the purée for the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the roasted red pepper purée.
5. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Pour in the cream and stir to combine.
7. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked penne to the skillet.
2. Toss well to coat each piece of pasta in the creamy sauce.
3. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil or parsley, and a touch of black pepper.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the beautiful, creamy, and aromatic pasta!

How to Serve

• Serve warm with garlic bread, bruschetta, or a light green salad.
• Pair with white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a delightful balance.
• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat if desired.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use good-quality roasted red peppers for maximum flavor.
• If you’re roasting your own, char them over an open flame until blackened, peel, and deseed.
• Always add Parmesan gradually to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Don’t boil the sauce too long after adding cream — it can separate.
• A splash of lemon juice can add brightness and balance richness.

Variations

1. Chicken Roasted Red Pepper Pasta: Add grilled chicken slices for extra protein.
2. Spicy Version: Increase chili flakes or add a touch of cayenne.
3. Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
4. Roasted Red Pepper & Spinach Penne: Add a handful of baby spinach at the end.
5. Seafood Twist: Add sautéed shrimp or scallops for a gourmet touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Sauce can be frozen (without pasta) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s texture.

💡 Tip: Avoid freezing with pasta — it may become mushy when thawed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Blender or food processor
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I roast my own peppers?
Yes! Roast whole red peppers directly over a flame or under a broiler until blackened, then peel and deseed.

Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely — use coconut cream or oat cream and a vegan Parmesan substitute.

Q3: Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully — they all hold the sauce well.

Q4: Is this dish spicy?
Only mildly, from the red chili flakes. You can easily adjust the heat to your preference.

Q5: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce ahead, refrigerate it, and reheat before tossing with fresh pasta.

Conclusion

Roasted Red Pepper Penne with Parmesan Cream is a dish that combines elegance and comfort in one bowl. Its velvety texture, smoky sweetness, and creamy richness make it an unforgettable meal for any pasta lover. The bright color and fragrant aroma instantly elevate your dining experience, proving that simple ingredients can create truly magical flavors.

Whether served for a casual family dinner or a romantic evening, this pasta promises to impress every single time — a true Italian-inspired masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.