This creamy roasted red pepper pasta is the ultimate easy pasta dinner when you’re craving something cozy, flavorful, and fast.
Sweet roasted red peppers are blended into a velvety sauce with garlic, butter, and white wine—then tossed with pasta for the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes straight from your pantry.
Whether you’re cooking with leftovers or need a quick weeknight meal, this pantry pasta delivers creamy comfort in just 25 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pantry staple magic – A true pantry pasta using common shelf ingredients
Creamy, rich sauce – Thanks to butter, garlic, and roasted red peppers
Big flavor, low effort – Ideal for a quick weeknight meal
Flexible – Add veggies, protein, or herbs
Elegant enough for guests – Yet simple enough for a Tuesday night
Reheats well – Great for lunch leftovers
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Roasted red peppers – The star of the sauce, sweet and smoky
Shallots & garlic – Classic aromatics for depth
Lemon zest & juice – Brightens the whole dish
Tomato paste – Adds umami and richness
White wine – A splash lifts the sauce and balances the creaminess
Butter – Gives the sauce its signature creamy texture
Capers – Briny pops that contrast the sweet roasted red peppers
Pasta – Any shape you love (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti)
Salt & pepper – Essential seasoning
Pro Tips Before You Start
Save pasta water – It’s key for a smooth, glossy sauce in this creamy roasted red pepper pasta
Slice shallots thin – So they melt into the sauce
Deglaze well – White wine brings out bold flavor
Add greens or protein – Make it heartier with spinach or chicken
Don’t overcook pasta – It should be al dente before finishing in the sauce
How to Make Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook ½ lb pasta until al dente.
Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add 1 thinly sliced shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and the zest of 1 lemon.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add 1 tbsp tomato paste and stir for 1 minute.
Pour in ½ cup white wine to deglaze, scraping the pan.
Simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Flavor
Stir in 1 cup sliced roasted red peppers and ½ cup capers.
Cook 1–2 minutes to heat through.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Add the pasta, 2 tbsp more butter, juice of 1 lemon, and about ½ cup pasta water.
Toss until creamy and coated.
Adjust with more pasta water if needed.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm with extra lemon zest or herbs.
What to Serve With This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Garlic bread – Soaks up the creamy sauce
Arugula salad – Adds a peppery contrast
Grated parmesan – Optional but delicious
Chili flakes – Great for spice lovers
A crisp white wine – Use the one from the sauce!
Variations / Substitutions
Use homemade roasted red peppers – If you prefer fresh
No wine? – Sub with veggie broth + splash of lemon
Add spinach, kale, or peas – To make this pantry pasta more nutritious
Toss in protein – Shredded chicken or white beans work great
Make it spicy – Red pepper flakes bring heat
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge – Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat – In a pan with splash of water or broth
Freezing – Not ideal; the butter-based sauce may separate
Leftover ideas – Stir into soups, top with eggs, or use as a pasta bake base
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use olive oil or vegan butter in this creamy roasted red pepper pasta.
What wine works best?
Dry whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement roasted red peppers well.
Is this spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes for heat.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use your favorite GF pasta and reserve the cooking water.
Should I blend the sauce?
You can for a smoother finish—but it’s optional.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short shapes like penne hold the creamy roasted red pepper sauce well, but spaghetti is great too.
Final Thoughts
This creamy roasted red pepper pasta is proof that an easy pasta dinner doesn’t have to be boring.
With bold flavor, vibrant color, and everyday ingredients, it’s the kind of pantry pasta that becomes a weeknight favorite.
Make it your own, serve it hot, and enjoy every comforting bite.
