Creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs brings a vibrant twist to your dinner table. This dish combines the lusciousness of creamy sauce with the rich flavor of roasted red peppers. Topped with the delightful creaminess of burrata and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, every bite is a creamy, dreamy experience. This pasta recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why We Love This Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
This creamy red pepper pasta stands out for several reasons. First, the vibrant color of roasted red peppers creates an eye-catching dish that impresses the senses before you even take a bite. The combination of flavors offers a delightful contrast, with the sweetness of the peppers balancing the richness of the cream and cheese. Burrata adds a luxurious touch that takes this pasta from ordinary to extraordinary. The herbs infuse fresh notes, brightening up the dish and making it more aromatic. Plus, this recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a fantastic meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its velvety texture and robust flavor, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.
Ingredients for Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Start by roasting the red bell peppers. You can do this by placing them under a broiler or directly on a grill until the skins become charred and blistered, about 10-15 minutes. Turn them occasionally for an even roast. Once done, place the peppers in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for about 10 minutes. This makes them easier to peel.
- After cooling, peel the skins off the peppers, remove the seeds, and roughly chop them.
- Cook your pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute.
- Add the chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce at this point.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Gently fold in the burrata cheese, allowing it to warm through but not completely melt.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
When serving creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs, presentation matters. Start by plating the pasta generously in vibrant bowls to showcase the rich color of the sauce. This dish shines with garnish, so don’t skip the fresh basil and parsley; they add not only a pop of color but also a fresh aroma that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil over the top for an added layer of richness. Consider serving with crusty bread on the side, allowing everyone to enjoy every last drop of that creamy sauce. Pair it with a light, fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a rustic touch, serve the pasta family-style on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves. This inviting presentation enhances the overall dining experience and encourages conversation around the table.
Expert Tips for Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
To elevate your creamy red pepper pasta, start by using high-quality ingredients. Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference, so opt for fresh basil and parsley instead of dried. Roasting the red peppers enhances their sweetness, so take your time during this step. If you want to save time, you can roast the peppers in advance and store them in the fridge for a few days. Adjust the creaminess of your sauce by playing with the heavy cream and pasta water. Adding a little at a time helps you find the perfect consistency. Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning and flavors to suit your preferences. If you love garlic, feel free to add more; if you want a touch of tang, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish. Also, if you can’t find burrata, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a similar texture. Lastly, don’t forget to let the skillet pan sit after you add the burrata. This lets the cheese soften just enough to create a luxurious experience when you mix it through the pasta.
How to Store Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
If you have leftovers of your creamy red pepper pasta with burrata and herbs, you can store them safely in the fridge. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating can be straightforward. Simply place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or extra cream to bring it back to life. Stir gently until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as that might cause the burrata to lose its creamy texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. However, it’s best to do this without the burrata, as the texture may change upon thawing. Store the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to three months, and make sure to label it with the date for easy reference.
Variations of Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
Feel free to experiment with variations of creamy red pepper pasta to suit your taste. You might want to add some sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritional boost; these greens pair well with the creamy sauce and offer a beautiful color contrast. For a protein-packed version, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Their flavors meld beautifully with the sweet red peppers and creamy texture. If you’re a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, chop some up and toss them in for an extra layer of flavor. Switching up the herbs can also create a new experience; try using thyme or dill instead of the usual basil and parsley. For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and replace burrata with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences without compromising on flavor. Embrace your creativity and make this dish your own with the ingredients you love.
FAQ about Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
Can I use jarred roasted red peppers instead of fresh ones for creamy red pepper pasta?
Yes, jarred roasted red peppers are a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in your pasta.
What type of pasta works best for creamy red pepper pasta?
You can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. Choose a shape that captures the creamy sauce beautifully.
How do I make creamy red pepper pasta vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and replace the burrata with a vegan cheese option.
How spicy can I make creamy red pepper pasta?
You can adjust the heat level in your creamy red pepper pasta depending on your taste. Adding red pepper flakes offers a gentle heat, while you can omit them entirely for a milder dish.
Can I store leftovers of creamy red pepper pasta?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing without burrata to maintain quality.