Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce is a creamy, flavorful, and vibrant alternative to traditional tomato sauces. Made with simple ingredients and roasted red peppers, this sauce delivers a sweet, smoky depth that pairs perfectly with pasta, grains, or even as a base for pizzas. It’s quick to prepare, naturally vegan, and bursting with rich, comforting flavor.

ingredients

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

roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)olive oilgarlicyellow onionunsweetened plant-based milk or cream (or regular cream if not vegan)nutritional yeast or parmesan cheese (optional for creaminess)lemon juicecrushed red pepper flakes (optional)saltblack pepperfresh basil or parsley (for garnish)pasta of choice

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until soft and translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

In a blender, combine sautéed onions and garlic, roasted red peppers, plant milk or cream, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast or cheese if using. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Return sauce to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to heat through and slightly thicken.

Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper umami flavor.

Include white beans or silken tofu in the blend for added protein.

Use coconut milk for a richer, dairy-free option.

Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the finished dish.

storage/reheating

Store sauce separately or with pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if it thickens too much.
Sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw and reheat before use.

FAQs

Can I use fresh red peppers?

Yes, roast them in the oven until charred, peel off the skin, and proceed as usual.

Is this sauce vegan?

Yes, if you use plant-based milk and skip or replace the cheese.

Can I make it spicy?

Add extra crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

What pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni all work great to hold the sauce.

How do I make it thicker?

Simmer longer after blending or add a small amount of cashews before blending.

Can I use this as a dip?

Yes, reduce the milk slightly for a thicker consistency—it’s great with bread or veggies.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s creamy and mild—just omit the chili flakes for a gentler taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, it scales well and stores beautifully.

Is it good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and pairs with grains, veggies, or proteins.

Can I add protein?

Try chickpeas, grilled tofu, or shredded chicken for a boost.

Conclusion

Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Sauce is a fast, flavorful, and flexible sauce that brings a gourmet feel to everyday meals. Whether you’re after a comforting dinner or prepping meals for the week, this sauce is a delicious, wholesome staple you’ll return to again and again.