Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe! It’s a dish that truly delivers—in every swirl you’ll find silky ribbons of roasted red pepper sauce, perfectly al dente pasta, and lavish pillows of burrata cheese melting into a tangle of herbs and lemon zest. Whether you’re aiming to wow at a dinner party or just want a cozy, soul-hugging meal for yourself, this is the kind of pasta that leaves everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe even licking the plate). Flavor-packed, verdant, and undeniably comforting, you’ll want this recipe on repeat year-round!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity—each ingredient brings something essential, whether it’s depth, color, or that creamy finish. Here’s your delicious roadmap to pasta magic, with each component playing a starring role!
- Pasta of choice (12 oz): Go for rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine—each shape soaks up that velvety red pepper sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): The backbone of savory flavor and a lush texture for sautéing your aromatics.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth that rounds out the robust pepper flavor.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): That essential kick of warmth and fragrance—don’t skip it!
- Roasted red peppers (1 jar, 16 oz), drained and chopped: These are the star: smoky-sweet and vibrant, turning simple pasta into pure magic.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a hint of heat; totally adjustable to your spice preference.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): The secret to luxurious creaminess—just a splash transforms everything.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Salty, nutty, and melty; brings intense Italian flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Because proper seasoning matters! Taste as you go.
- Burrata cheese (8 oz): This ultra-creamy cheese is the showstopper—tear it over the pasta for irresistible richness.
- Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup, torn): Adds a touch of peppery, herbal brightness right at the end.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): For a clean, fresh pop of green flavor and color.
- Zest of 1 lemon: The finishing touch that lifts all the flavors with vibrancy and zing.
How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a boil—don’t be shy with the salt, as it’s your first chance to season the pasta. Cook your chosen noodles (rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine) until perfectly al dente, following the package timing. Right before draining, scoop out about half a cup of that starchy pasta water to help your sauce later. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and let it shimmer. Add your diced onion and let it gently sweat for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring until translucent and soft. Next, toss in the minced garlic, stirring for just 30 seconds—a quick sauté brings out all that irresistible aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Add Roasted Red Peppers and Spice
Tip in your chopped, drained roasted red peppers and sprinkle over the crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Let everything sizzle and meld for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the peppers to release their flavor and sweet smokiness into the pan.
Step 4: Blend Until Silky
Carefully transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender. Puree until completely smooth and creamy—this is when the magic happens! If your blender is small, you can do this in batches or use an immersion blender right in the pan. No lumps—just pure, velvety sauce.
Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Return the silky sauce back to the skillet and turn the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, followed by a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Let it bubble softly for another 2 to 3 minutes. Add pasta water bit by bit, adjusting until you reach that dreamy, cling-to-the-noodle consistency.
Step 6: Toss Pasta in the Sauce
Add your hot, drained pasta straight into the pan and toss, toss, toss until every noodle gleams in that gorgeous sauce. Make sure every piece is thoroughly coated—you want each bite to be unforgettably flavorful.
Step 7: Finish and Garnish
Spoon the pasta into bowls or a big, family-style platter. Tear the burrata cheese right over the top, letting it ooze luxuriously. Scatter over the torn basil, chopped parsley, and a sparkly sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving for ultimate freshness and flair. And that’s how you set the stage for Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe perfection!
How to Serve Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
Go all-in with your garnishes! A blush of extra lemon zest, a shower of fresh basil leaves, and an extra drizzle of olive oil over the burrata all add layers of fragrance and color. If you love a little extra cheese, some freshly grated Parmesan right before serving gives the dish restaurant-worthy appeal.
Side Dishes
This rich, creamy pasta is delightful with simple accompaniments: think a platter of crusty bread to swipe through any leftover sauce and a crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette. For extra veggies, roasted asparagus or a medley of grilled Mediterranean vegetables round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Make it dinner-party dramatic by serving the Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe in a wide, shallow bowl, artfully draping the burrata and herbs over the top. For a rustic vibe, bring the skillet right to the table and let everyone dig in family-style. Or, for fun individual portions, twirl nests of pasta onto plates and nestle a chunk of burrata right in the center!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the pasta and sauce to an airtight container and tuck it into the fridge. Keep the burrata separate, if possible, and add it fresh when reheating for that signature creaminess—the flavors meld beautifully by the next day, making lunch irresistible.
Freezing
The sauce itself freezes wonderfully—store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze the sauce on its own and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat. Avoid freezing burrata, as it loses its luscious texture once thawed.
Reheating
Warm your leftover pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Gently reheat until hot but not boiling, then top with fresh burrata and those zesty herbs for that just-made vibe all over again.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative (like cashew cream or coconut cream), swap the Parmesan with nutritional yeast, and top with a vegan alternative to burrata—or just skip the cheese. The sauce is naturally vegan-friendly and still beautifully creamy.
What type Main Course
Short shapes like rigatoni and penne catch all the lovely sauce in their ridges and tubes, while fettuccine offers that classic luxury of long, silky ribbons. Pick whichever you love or have on hand—there’s no wrong answer here!
Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred?
Yes, you can! Simply char and peel 3 to 4 large red bell peppers, remove the seeds, and chop them up before using. Roasted jarred peppers offer convenience and a deeper roasted flavor, but homemade adds a special touch.
Is Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe spicy?
It’s totally up to you! The base sauce is mild and sweet, and the spice comes only from the optional red pepper flakes. Feel free to skip or adjust the amount to suit your spice level—this pasta is all about customizing to your taste!
How do I zest a lemon for the final touch?
Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the yellow part of the peel, as that’s where all the bright, aromatic oils live. Avoid the bitter white pith underneath. Zesting right before serving ensures a burst of freshness and vivid flavor in every bite.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for an unforgettable meal that’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, you simply need to try the Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. Every bite is a gorgeous harmony of bright, creamy, herby flavors—it’s pure pasta joy, and once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back for more. Grab your ingredients and enjoy a little Italian-inspired magic tonight!
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Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this flavorful Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs. This ultimate pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the luxurious creaminess of burrata cheese, all tossed with fragrant herbs and a hint of lemon zest.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta of choice (rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar (16 oz) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
To Serve:
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic. Add red peppers, puree in a blender, then return to skillet. Stir in cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Simmer and add pasta water as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce. Serve topped with torn burrata, basil, parsley, and lemon zest.
Notes
- For a smokier flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika to the sauce.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread and a light green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, stovetop sauté, blending
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 19 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
