15-Minute Creamy Red Pepper (Printable Version)

Silky red pepper sauce with garlic and Parmesan coats tender pasta, ready in a flash.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 7 oz dried penne or spaghetti

→ Sauce

02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 12 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained and roughly chopped
06 - ⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream
07 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

10 - Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
11 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
03 - Add chopped roasted red peppers and smoked paprika to the skillet, cooking for 2 minutes while stirring frequently.
04 - Transfer mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to purée until smooth.
05 - Return purée to skillet over low heat. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until creamy and heated through.
06 - Add drained pasta to skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
07 - Plate immediately and garnish with torn basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes
  • Delicious creamy roasted red pepper flavor
02 -
  • For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast
  • Pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio
03 -
  • Add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat
  • Toss in cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein
Go Back