If you are looking for a dish that perfectly combines luscious creaminess with vibrant, fresh flavors, this Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It’s an irresistible Italian-inspired meal where silky roasted red pepper sauce hugs tender pasta, then is crowned with heavenly burrata cheese and bright herbs. Every bite delivers a harmonious balance of comfort and freshness that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Easy to make yet impressive enough to serve guests, this recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to pure magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together effortlessly, each playing a crucial role in building depth of flavor, creamy texture, and beautiful color. From sweet roasted red peppers to fragrant fresh herbs, every component is essential to creating the perfect plate.
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or rigatoni): Choose your favorite shape that will hold the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds a fruity aroma.
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Brings a punch of flavor that complements the red pepper sauce.
- 1 jar (12 ounces) roasted red peppers (drained): The star ingredient delivering smoky sweetness and vivid color.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who love a little heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle earthiness and balance.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that makes the dish indulgent.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Infuses the dish with a fresh, herbal brightness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Offers crispness and color contrast.
- 2 balls burrata cheese: The crowning glory that melts luxuriously on top.
- Optional: extra herbs or cracked black pepper for garnish: Perfect for a finishing flourish.
How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water will season the pasta from within, which is key to deep flavor. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente — tender with a slight bite. Before draining, be sure to reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water; this little trick will help adjust your sauce’s consistency later for that velvety texture.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until it softens into a translucent, sweet base. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing their fragrant aroma that sets the stage for the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Red Pepper Sauce
Add the drained roasted red peppers to the skillet, along with red pepper flakes (if you enjoy a hint of spice), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let the mixture cook together for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully. Then, transfer this mixture to a blender or carefully use an immersion blender right in the pan to puree it until perfectly smooth and creamy — this step is what transforms those simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Step 4: Finish the Creamy Sauce
Return the blended sauce to the skillet and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes luxuriously creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to reach the ideal consistency that will cling lovingly to each strand of pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, stirring carefully to coat every piece evenly. This ensures each bite is saturated with that rich, vibrant red pepper creaminess. Once combined, it’s time to plate your masterpiece and get ready for the best part.
Step 6: Add Burrata and Herbs
Place torn balls of burrata cheese atop the pasta — the cheese will slowly melt into the warm sauce, creating a silky indulgence that tastes incredible. Sprinkle with freshly chopped basil and parsley for a pop of freshness and color. If you want to go the extra mile, add a dash of cracked black pepper or some additional Parmesan as a final flourish.
How to Serve Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this dish is in its garnishes, which balance richness with brightness. Fresh basil and parsley bring a lively herbal note while extra cracked black pepper adds mild heat and an aromatic punch. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add sophistication and personal flair. Burrata, of course, is the decadent finishing touch — its melting creaminess crowds the palette with luxury.
Side Dishes
This creamy red pepper pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, to cut through the richness. Roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccolini add textural contrast and earthiness. For a carb lover’s delight, garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf makes a perfect vehicle to mop up every last bit of luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elevated dinner party presentation, serve this pasta in warm shallow bowls that showcase the dramatic red sauce base topped with the white burrata and sprinkled herbs, creating a beautiful color contrast. Alternatively, serving it family-style in a large pasta bowl encourages sharing and conviviality. You can also add edible flowers or microgreens for bright pops of color that make the dish look as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the burrata apart until serving preserves its fresh texture and creaminess. This method ensures your pasta stays fresh and the sauce retains its smooth consistency.
Freezing
Because this recipe depends on fresh burrata and cream, freezing the entire dish is not recommended as it can affect texture and flavor. However, you can freeze the red pepper sauce on its own for up to 2 months in a sealed container. Thaw completely and adjust creaminess by stirring in fresh cream when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring in reserved pasta water to loosen the texture, then toss in the pasta. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the sauce to separate. Once heated through, add fresh burrata just before serving to enjoy that irresistible creamy finish.
FAQs
Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred roasted ones?
Fresh red peppers can work if you roast them yourself until charred and tender. The jarred variety is convenient and consistently delivers that smoky sweetness essential for the sauce. Roasting fresh peppers at home definitely adds a lovely homemade touch but requires a bit more prep time.
Is there a vegan version of the Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe?
Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with a rich cashew cream and skip the Parmesan and burrata. For added texture, toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach. This adaptation still provides plenty of creamy, satisfying flavor while keeping it plant-based and delicious.
What pasta shape is best for this recipe?
Pasta shapes like fettuccine or rigatoni hold the creamy red pepper sauce beautifully. Wide, flat noodles or tubes provide plenty of surface area for the sauce to cling to, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. Feel free to experiment with shapes you love!
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, add reserved pasta water as needed, and toss with freshly cooked pasta. Add burrata and herbs only at the moment of serving for the best texture and freshness.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The optional red pepper flakes add a mild warmth that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish. You can easily adjust the amount or omit it based on your spice preference. The recipe balances creamy richness with a gentle hint of heat for a wonderful flavor contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs Recipe is a triumph of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s truly one of those dishes that feels special and comforting all at once, perfect for any night of the week or entertaining friends. I encourage you to give it a try, savoring every luscious bite and the wonderful blend of creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors that only this recipe delivers so effortlessly.
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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
A luscious creamy red pepper pasta made with roasted red peppers blended into a velvety sauce, enhanced with fresh herbs and topped with loads of soft burrata cheese. This Italian-inspired vegetarian dish combines the sweetness of roasted peppers and richness of cream and Parmesan to create a comforting, flavorful main course perfect for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar (12 ounces) roasted red peppers, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 balls burrata cheese
- Optional: extra herbs or cracked black pepper for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta thoroughly.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Peppers: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then add the drained roasted red peppers, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for 2 more minutes to meld the flavors.
- Blend the Sauce: Transfer the pepper mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender right in the pan. Puree until completely smooth and creamy.
- Finish the Sauce: Return the blended sauce to the skillet if removed. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat each strand or piece in the creamy red pepper sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and top each serving with torn pieces of burrata cheese. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and parsley. For extra flavor, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or cracked black pepper if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegan alternative, substitute heavy cream and burrata with cashew cream and omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach to the sauce for additional texture and flavor.
- Reserve pasta water is essential to adjust the sauce’s thickness and help it cling to the pasta better.
- Use burrata at room temperature for the best creamy texture.
