Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Penne

In the fast-paced world we live in, the importance of home-cooked meals cannot be overstated. They not only nourish our bodies but also serve as a means of connection and comfort amidst our busy lives. Among the myriad of dishes that one can whip up at home, Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Penne stands out as a vibrant and flavorful option that brings a touch of elegance to the dinner table without demanding too much time or effort.

Discover the joys of home-cooked meals with this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Penne recipe! This delightful pasta combines the rich flavors of roasted red peppers and creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Learn how to create this Mediterranean-inspired dish using fresh ingredients like penne pasta, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Effortlessly elevate your dinner table with this vibrant and comforting meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the taste of homemade goodness!

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Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

3 large red bell peppers

1 medium onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Roast the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast them for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the skin is charred. Once done, transfer them to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap for about 10 minutes to steam. This will make it easier to peel off the skin.

Cook the Pasta: While the peppers are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce: Once the peppers are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop them coarsely. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted red peppers to the skillet along with the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Blend the Sauce: Transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Toss the Pasta: In the same skillet, combine the cooked penne with the creamy roasted red pepper sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and incorporates into the sauce. If necessary, use more reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Serve: Divide the creamy penne into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and creamy roasted red pepper penne!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4