Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta Recipe

If you are in the mood for something that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully comforting, you have to try this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta. This vibrant dish perfectly balances the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with a luscious, velvety cream sauce and the tangy, crumbly goodness of feta cheese. Every bite feels indulgent but simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The combination of textures and flavors is truly irresistible, making this pasta one of those personal favorites that always leaves you craving more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this mouthwatering Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays an essential role: from the tender pasta base, the aromatic sautéed onions and garlic, to the rich cream and sharp feta that bring the sauce to life with color and taste.

• 12 oz pasta of choice: Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work beautifully, providing a perfect canvas for the sauce.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps gently soften the onion and garlic.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Builds a sweet, savory foundation when sautéed.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, fragrant notes.
• 2 roasted red peppers, chopped (or 1 cup jarred): The star ingredient delivering a smoky, tangy flavor and gorgeous color.
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream: Creates that signature creamy texture that envelops every strand of pasta.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Enhances the pepper’s smokiness and adds subtle depth.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing all the vibrant flavors.
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese: Provides a salty, tangy contrast and melts just enough into the sauce.
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish: Brightens and freshens each serving.

How to Make Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This is important to keep the pasta firm so it can hold up against the creamy sauce. After draining, hold onto about half a cup of the pasta water—it’s a secret ingredient that helps you perfect your sauce’s texture later.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent. Adding the minced garlic next allows the flavors to bloom for about a minute—avoid burning it to keep the flavor delicate. Then, toss in the roasted red peppers and sprinkle with the smoked paprika, stirring around for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 3: Blend for Extra Creaminess (Optional)

For that luxuriously smooth sauce texture that feels like a warm hug, transfer the pepper mixture to a blender and pulse until creamy. Don’t worry if you prefer a chunkier texture; you can skip this step and still end up with a fabulous sauce. Return the blended sauce to the skillet to continue.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and quickly stir the cooked pasta into the skillet. Slowly add the reserved pasta water as you mix to achieve the consistency you love—silky but not too runny. Taste and season with salt and black pepper, enhancing every element of the dish.

Step 5: Add Feta & Serve

Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese so it melts just enough to create little pockets of creamy, tangy delight throughout your pasta. Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil right before serving for a burst of herbal brightness that balances the rich sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only add color but lift the whole dish with their aromatic notes. For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts to add crunch and a nutty flavor complementing the creamy sauce and salty feta.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to add acidity and cut through the creaminess. Roasted vegetables or warm crusty bread also make excellent companions, soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve this pasta in shallow bowls topped with halved cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the freshness. Alternatively, turn it into a pasta bake by topping with extra feta and mozzarella before popping it under the broiler for a bubbly, golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken after cooling, but a quick stir with a splash of water or cream will loosen it right back up.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream and feta can change slightly. If freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat this pasta on low heat in a skillet, stirring often and adding a bit of water or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving without stirring to prevent hot spots or curdling of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use fresh red peppers instead of roasted?

Fresh red peppers won’t provide the same smoky sweetness, which is essential to the dish’s depth. If you don’t have roasted red peppers on hand, you can roast fresh ones yourself by charring them under a broiler or on a grill before peeling and chopping.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and swap feta for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just keep in mind the taste will vary slightly but still be delicious.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti are fantastic choices because their shapes help catch the creamy sauce. Choose the pasta you love best or have available; just cook it al dente for the best texture.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Spinach, arugula, or sautéed cherry tomatoes make perfect additions that add freshness and more layers of flavor. Simply toss them in toward the end of cooking to keep them vibrant.

How spicy is the dish?

It’s generally mild with a smoky undertone from the paprika. You can adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat or keep it gentle for all palates.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta truly feels like a cozy but vibrant celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the best possible way. Whether you are cooking for friends, family, or yourself, this dish brings warmth, color, and flavor that’s guaranteed to brighten any mealtime. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta!

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