Roasted red pepper cream penne coated in a smooth, creamy sauce and served as a comforting pasta dinner.

Roasted Red Pepper Cream Penne (30-Minute Sauce-Coated Pasta)

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Flavour Quest Recipes

Roasted Red Pepper Cream Penne (30-Minute Sauce-Coated Pasta)

Roasted Red Pepper Cream Penne is a smooth, sauce-forward pasta that brings together sweet roasted peppers and rich cream for a comforting, flavorful dinner. The velvety sauce clings to every piece of penne, creating a restaurant-style dish that’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve to guests.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz Penne pasta
  • 1 cup Roasted red pepper drained and chopped (jarred or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 3 Cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • ¼ tsp Salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper
  • ¼ tsp Smoked Paprika (optional)
  • ¼ tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup Pasta water reserved, use as needed
  • Fresh basil or parsley chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. While the pasta cooks, add roasted red peppers to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the blended roasted red pepper sauce and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Enjoying this recipe? You may also love my Comfort Dinner Guide — a simple collection of easy, cozy meal ideas for busy weeknights. It’s a helpful extra resource for those nights when you want something comforting without overthinking dinner.

🔄 Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein

Stir in spinach or peas for added color and freshness

Use smoked paprika for a deeper, slightly smoky flavor

Swap penne for rigatoni or fusilli

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables

Finish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil

Add a drizzle of chili oil for gentle heat

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate

💡 Tips

Drain roasted red peppers well to keep the sauce thick

Blend the sauce until completely smooth for the best texture

Simmer gently to prevent the cream from separating

Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
A: Yes. Jarred roasted red peppers work perfectly and save time.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No, it’s mild and slightly sweet. Red pepper flakes can be added for heat.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes. The sauce can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and reheated gently.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: You can use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, though the flavor will change slightly.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.

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