Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs! This dish is an absolute show-stopper and so comforting. Picture this: roasted red peppers blended into a silky smooth sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly. The best part? That luscious burrata on top that just melts into the dish, adding this dreamy creaminess that you’ll keep coming back for. I love how simple it is to whip up, yet it feels so fancy, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends at a gathering. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new favorite weeknight meal!
Ingredients List
- 12 oz pasta (your favorite shape will do!)
- 2 red bell peppers (the star of the show!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy texture)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nice salty flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing and flavor)
- 1 tsp salt (taste as you go!)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (just a pinch for warmth)
- 8 oz burrata cheese (the dreamy finishing touch)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for a burst of freshness)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (because we love herbs!)
How to Prepare Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs
Step 1: Preheat and Roast
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab your beautiful red bell peppers and place them on a baking sheet. We want to roast them for about 25 minutes until they’re nice and charred. This will bring out their sweetness and add a lovely smoky flavor to our sauce. Keep an eye on them—once they start to blister, you know you’re on the right track!
Step 2: Blend the Peppers
Once your peppers are roasted to perfection, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully remove the skins and seeds (they should come off easily). Toss the roasted peppers into a blender and blend until smooth. This luscious red pepper purée is going to be the base of our sauce, so make sure it’s velvety and delightful!
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While you’re blending those peppers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, don’t forget to drain it well. You want to get rid of that water so it can soak up all the creamy goodness later!
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a skillet, heat up your olive oil over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant—yum! Next, add in the blended red pepper purée, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Now comes the fun part! Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, and mix everything together until the pasta is well coated. Serve it up on plates, and don’t forget to top each serving with a generous dollop of burrata cheese. Finally, sprinkle on the fresh basil and parsley for that burst of color and flavor. Dig in and enjoy this creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs—it’s absolutely irresistible!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
When it comes to nutrition, keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I can’t provide precise data, I can share some common values for this creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs. Generally, each serving contains around 650 calories, with about 40g of fat and 15g of protein. You’ll also find roughly 60g of carbohydrates per serving. It’s always a good idea to double-check the nutrition labels on your ingredients if you’re keeping a close eye on your dietary needs. Enjoy your cooking adventure and remember, this dish is all about balance and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Loaded with flavor from roasted red peppers and creamy burrata.
- Vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it!
- Elegant enough to impress at dinner parties, yet simple for everyday meals.
- Customizable with your favorite pasta shape or additional herbs!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my go-to tips to ensure your creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Taste as you go: Don’t be shy! As you prepare your sauce, take a little taste to adjust the seasoning. Sometimes, a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference!
- Choose the right pasta: While I love using fettuccine, feel free to experiment with your favorite shape! Just make sure it’s something that will hold onto that creamy sauce well—penne or rigatoni are also great options!
- Don’t rush the roasting: The charred flavor from the roasted peppers is key. If you see them starting to blister, that’s your cue they’re almost ready—let them get that beautiful color!
- Save some pasta water: If your sauce is a bit thick, you can always add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up. It helps the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully!
- Herb variations: Feel free to mix up the herbs! Fresh thyme or oregano could be delightful additions, giving it a new twist every time you make it!
- Serve immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed right after it’s made. The creaminess and flavors are at their peak, so dig in while it’s fresh!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, I’ve got some fantastic variations for this creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs that you’ll absolutely love!
- Herb Explosion: Try swapping out the basil and parsley for other fresh herbs like cilantro or dill. Each brings its own unique flavor that can completely transform the dish!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a nice spicy kick. It adds warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in some crumbled goat cheese or feta along with the burrata for an extra cheesy experience. The tangy flavors will complement the richness perfectly!
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted zucchini to make it even more nutritious. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
- Pasta Shape Shuffle: While I love fettuccine, you can use any pasta shape you fancy! Try penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a different texture and bite.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for some crunch and a lovely nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of this dish. Cooking should always be fun and a little chaotic—let your creativity shine!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs is super easy. Just make sure to let it cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Trust me, it’ll still taste amazing when you’re ready to dig in again!
Now, when it comes to reheating, you want to make sure that the creamy texture stays intact. I recommend warming it up on the stovetop over low heat. Just add a splash of water or a bit more cream to loosen it up and stir gently until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splatters and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.
And remember, the burrata is best enjoyed fresh, so I’d suggest adding that on top right before serving. Enjoy those delicious leftovers just as much as you did the first time around!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cheese instead of burrata?
Absolutely! While burrata adds a lovely creaminess, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or even ricotta for a different texture. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well to keep that delicious creaminess!
Can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are so many delicious options available these days, and they’ll work beautifully with the creamy red pepper sauce!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re craving a bit of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce as it simmers. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch!
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely! You can make the red pepper sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve, and toss it with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal!
What can I serve with creamy red pepper pasta?
This pasta is a star on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, serve it with a simple side salad, some crusty bread, or even grilled vegetables. It’s all about that perfect balance!
Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata: 5 Flavorful Tips
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs is a flavorful dish that combines roasted red peppers, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast red bell peppers for 25 minutes until charred.
- Remove skins, seeds, and blend peppers until smooth.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add the blended peppers, cream, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add pasta and mix well.
- Serve with burrata on top and garnish with herbs.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: creamy red pepper pasta, burrata pasta, red pepper sauce, Italian pasta dish
