Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce

Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce is a rich, creamy, and flavor-packed alternative to traditional tomato-based sauces. Made with sweet roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of cream or plant-based milk, this sauce is incredibly smooth and perfect for tossing with your favorite pasta. It’s quick to make, customizable, and naturally vibrant—ideal for weeknight meals or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Naturally sweet and smoky from roasted red peppers
• Simple ingredients and minimal prep
• Can be made vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-free
• Freezes well for future meals
• A fresh twist on classic red sauce
• Smooth, creamy texture without heavy cream
• Great with any pasta shape
• Pairs well with protein, veggies, or plant-based meat
• Kid-friendly and visually appealing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Jarred or homemade roasted red peppers
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Yellow onion (optional)
• Vegetable broth or water
• Coconut milk, heavy cream, or cashew cream
• Nutritional yeast or parmesan (optional)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Pasta of choice (to serve)

Directions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion (if using), and sauté until soft and fragrant.
2. Transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender along with roasted red peppers, broth, cream of choice, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast or cheese if using.
3. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
4. Return the sauce to the skillet and heat gently over low-medium heat. Simmer for 510 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
6. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved water to loosen if needed.
7. Garnish with herbs and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Total time: approximately 25 minutes

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce
• Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein
• Use dairy-free milk or cream for a vegan version
• Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean flair
• Try with chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein
• Top with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for crunch

storage/reheating

Let sauce and pasta cool before storing.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze sauce separately for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess. Microwave in intervals, stirring in between

FAQs

Can I use fresh red peppers?

Yes, roast them in the oven or on the stove until charred, then peel the skins before blending.

Is this sauce vegan?

It can be—just use plant-based cream and skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast.

What pasta works best?

Penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or fettuccine all pair well with this sauce.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge or freezer and reheats easily.

Is it spicy?

Not by default, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to taste.

Can I skip the cream?

Yes, it will be more like a marinara-style sauce—just add more broth for desired consistency.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer it longer on the stove or add a bit of tomato paste or cashew cream.

What if I don’t have a blender?

Use an immersion blender or mash everything finely and whisk together.

Does it taste like tomato sauce?

It has a milder, sweeter flavor and creamy texture that’s different but equally delicious.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes—add grilled chicken, chickpeas, lentils, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling.

Conclusion

Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce is a smooth, flavorful, and versatile sauce that elevates any pasta night. Whether you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and a little different from the usual tomato sauce, this recipe delivers big flavor with little effort. Keep it in your rotation for a fast, wholesome, and crowd-pleasing dinner.

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