If you adore pasta that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brilliantly balances the richness of creamy roasted red pepper sauce with the luscious, melting burrata and the fresh vibrancy of herbs, making every bite a celebration of Italian-inspired comfort. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up yet impressively elegant—perfect for a cozy weeknight or a dinner that wows friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, bringing essential flavors, textures, and hues that make this dish truly memorable. From the silky pasta to the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers and the fresh green herbs, this list is your gateway to culinary satisfaction.
- 12 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or rigatoni): The perfect canvas to soak up the creamy sauce while delivering a satisfying bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the onions and garlic with a lovely fragrance.
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped): Brings a subtle sweetness that deepens the sauce’s flavor profile.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a savory aroma that invites you in.
- 1 (12 oz) jar roasted red peppers (drained): The star ingredient that gives the sauce its vibrant color and smoky sweetness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes every forkful irresistible.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty punch that perfectly balances the sweetness of the peppers.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Elevates the sauce with a gentle smokiness that’s simply addictive.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to tie all flavors together without overpowering them.
- 1 ball fresh burrata cheese: The creamy, buttery finish that melts beautifully on top of the pasta.
- Fresh basil leaves (torn): For a bright, herbaceous touch that complements the richness.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds freshness and a pop of green color.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little gentle heat to balance the creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s al dente, meaning firm but cooked through—this texture helps the noodles hold up beautifully when tossed in the creamy sauce. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining; that starchy liquid is a secret weapon to smooth and loosen the sauce if it feels too thick.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for Depth
While the pasta cooks, warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent—this slow softness is key to developing the sauce’s rich base. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking just a minute more to release its fragrant oils without browning or burning it.
Step 3: Blend the Creamy Red Pepper Sauce
Transfer the softened onion and garlic into a blender, adding the jarred roasted red peppers, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika. Blend everything until beautifully smooth and creamy. This blending step transforms the humble ingredients into a luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor and color.
Step 4: Warm and Season the Sauce
Pour the blended sauce back into your skillet and warm it over medium heat, letting the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper—you want the seasoning balanced so the smoky sweetness and creaminess shine through perfectly.
Step 5: Toss Pasta in the Sauce
Throw the drained pasta into the skillet and toss to coat every strand in that decadent sauce. If the sauce feels too thick or sticky, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create an irresistibly silky finish.
Step 6: Plate and Add Burrata & Herbs
Divide the pasta into servings and top each bowl with a generous ball of fresh burrata. Let the cheese begin to melt for that heavenly indulgence. Scatter torn basil leaves, chopped parsley, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting.
How to Serve Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil and parsley are not just decorative but bring a vibrant herbal brightness that cuts through the rich creaminess, refreshing your palate with every bite. The burrata adds a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth component that’s pure indulgence. If you enjoy a touch of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a playful contrast without overpowering the dish.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides—a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a zesty counterpoint, while grilled seasonal vegetables or garlic bread bring texture and extra flavor to the table. The easy elegance of this pasta means you can keep sides light and fresh for a truly satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase that gorgeous creamy sauce and melting burrata. For a rustic touch, scatter fresh herbs right at the table and let everyone sprinkle their own—this adds an element of fun and enhances the fresh flavors. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top before serving for a silky sheen and added richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be hard, but it happens), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The burrata is best added fresh when reheating, so remove any cheese before storing.
Freezing
The sauce can be frozen separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but pasta texture may suffer slightly after freezing. For best results, freeze the sauce on its own and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s silkiness. Top with fresh burrata after warming, as reheating cheese can affect its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred roasted red peppers?
You absolutely can roast your own fresh red peppers for an even more vibrant and smoky flavor! Just char them under a broiler or on a grill until skins blacken, then peel and drain well before using.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe as written uses regular pasta, but you can easily substitute gluten-free pasta varieties to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets without compromising on taste.
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for cashew cream or coconut cream, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and omit the burrata or use a plant-based cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine or rigatoni are excellent choices since their shape holds the creamy sauce well. But don’t hesitate to use your favorite pasta; penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti can work beautifully.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu are fantastic additions that make this meal hearty and satisfying, perfect for feeding hungry appetites.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of twirling creamy, luxurious pasta coated in a smoky red pepper sauce and crowned with fresh burrata and herbs. The Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and a little love can create a dish that feels special yet easy enough for any night. Gather your ingredients, and dive into this flavorful, comforting meal—you’ll want to make it a staple in your rotation!
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Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs is a delightful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a luscious roasted red pepper sauce, enriched with creamy burrata and fragrant fresh herbs. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe blends smoky paprika, garlic, and Parmesan for a rich yet balanced flavor.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (12 oz) jar roasted red peppers, drained
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnishes
- 1 ball fresh burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Blend Sauce: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a blender. Add the drained roasted red peppers, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Heat Sauce: Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet and warm it over medium heat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce for a silky consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the sauced pasta among serving bowls. Top each portion with a generous scoop of fresh burrata cheese. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or cashew cream.
- Add sautéed spinach or grilled chicken to boost protein content.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
- Leftover pasta can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen sauce.
