Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake Recipe

Get ready to experience pasta like never before with this Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake – a mouthwatering, cheesy, and perfectly baked dish that’s bursting with rich flavors and creamy goodness! 🍝🔥🌶

Why You’ll Love It:
This isn’t just any pasta bake – this is comfort food elevated to new heights. Sweet, smoky roasted red peppers blend beautifully with creamy cheese and tender pasta, creating the ultimate casserole that’s both hearty and comforting. It’s baked to golden perfection, with crispy edges and a gooey, cheesy center that will have everyone asking for seconds!

A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite:
The roasted red peppers bring a deep, smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the creaminess of the cheese sauce. Mixed with tender pasta and a variety of savory seasonings, this dish is a true flavor bomb that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Each bite offers a perfect balance of richness and depth!

Simple to Make, Impossible to Resist:
With just a handful of ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can have a show-stopping meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a weekend get-together with friends. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, so cleanup is a breeze!

Comforting and Versatile:
This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake is cozy and indulgent, yet packed with flavor and vegetables. You can customize it to suit your tastes – add some grilled chicken, sprinkle on extra cheese, or toss in some fresh herbs for a burst of freshness. It’s the perfect balance of comforting and customizable!

A Crowd-Pleaser That’s Sure to Impress:
Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or bringing it to a potluck, this pasta bake will steal the show. It’s one of those dishes that’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy, with flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound tube-shaped pasta, such as rigatoni or penne

• 12 ounces roasted red peppers (homemade or jarred), drained

• 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces), divided

• 2 large cloves garlic, peeled

• 1 teaspoon coarse salt, plus more to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

• Pinch crushed red pepper flakes

• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided

• 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese, divided

• 1 1/2 cups grated low-moisture mozzarella cheese, divided

• 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves, divided

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Directions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, drain, and return to the pot off-heat.
• Meanwhile, add the roasted red peppers, 2/3 cup parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning to a food processor. Pulse until smooth, about 30 seconds, and then scrape down the sides. Pulsing as you pour, slowly drizzle in 1/3 cup olive oil until the sauce comes together and reaches a thick consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper if necessary.
• Pour the red pepper sauce over the pasta along with 1/4 cup of the ricotta, 1 cup of the mozzarella, and half of the basil leaves. Stir to coat.
• Spread the pasta into a 9-by-11-inch baking or casserole dish and evenly dollop the remaining ricotta over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and 2 tablespoons parmesan, and then drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
• Bake until the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Divide the pasta among plates and evenly garnish with the remaining basil leaves, gently torn to release their essential oils.

If you’re ready to indulge in a cheesy, smoky, and utterly irresistible pasta dish, Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake is the answer. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor – the perfect dish to make any night feel special! 😍🍽