If you’re craving a dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple, this Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender pasta drenched in a velvety roasted red pepper sauce, kissed with garlic and Parmesan, then crowned with a luscious burrata ball that melts into the creamy sauce. Fresh herbs add the perfect vibrant touch, making every bite a comforting celebration of flavor and texture. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises a cozy, delicious experience you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a star role, contributing to the wonderful layers of flavor, creaminess, and those perfect pops of freshness and color. It’s a simple lineup that anyone can gather, yet the combination transforms into a truly spectacular dish.
- 12 ounces pasta (such as rigatoni or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape to catch the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the onions and garlic.
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1 (12 oz) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped: The star flavor that creates the vibrant red sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat to awaken your palate.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spice contrast to the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and smooth.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a savory, nutty richness that ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Boosts umami and deepens the color of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed): Helps loosen the sauce to perfect coating consistency.
- 2 burrata balls (about 4 oz each): The luxurious finishing touch with luscious, creamy centers.
- Fresh basil, parsley, and chives for garnish: Add vibrant freshness and a beautiful herbal finish.
How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil — this is where the magic begins. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente, just tender with a little bite. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon to help marry the pasta with the sauce seamlessly.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics to Build Flavor
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it soften gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and sweet-smelling. Then add the minced garlic, cooking it just 30 seconds more to release its wonderful aroma without turning bitter. This step lays the foundation for your creamy red pepper sauce.
Step 3: Create the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Add the chopped roasted red peppers and tomato paste to the skillet along with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let these mingle for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the tomato paste to deepen the richness of the sauce. Then transfer everything to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until downright smooth, giving you that luscious base for your creamy red pepper pasta.
Step 4: Enrich the Sauce
Return the silky red pepper sauce to the skillet and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening slightly and becoming delightfully creamy — exactly what you want for a pasta sauce that clings beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, add your perfectly cooked pasta right into the sauce, tossing carefully to coat every piece. If the sauce feels a little thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach the ideal creamy consistency that hugs your pasta just right. This step ensures every forkful is luxuriously silky and satisfying.
Step 6: Add the Burrata and Fresh Herbs
Divide the pasta among serving plates and top each portion with a whole burrata ball. As soon as the warm pasta meets the burrata, it’ll start to melt, creating little pockets of creamy joy. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped basil, parsley, and chives generously over the top to add bright, herbal notes and a pop of color. Serve immediately and watch your friends or family swoon with each bite!
How to Serve Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and chives not only uplift the presentation but also add a fragrant, refreshing contrast to the richness of the sauce and burrata. Feel free to sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elegant finish that wakes up all the senses.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even some crunchy garlic bread will round out the meal perfectly and keep it balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving the pasta family-style in a rustic ceramic bowl with burrata balls nestled on top, allowing guests to appreciate the melting creaminess themselves. Alternatively, portion the pasta into individual bowls, garnish artistically with microgreens and edible flowers, turning this hearty dish into a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken in the fridge, so you may want to stir in a splash of cream or reserved pasta water when reheating to restore the perfect consistency.
Freezing
While the sauce can be frozen separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, the burrata doesn’t freeze well due to its delicate texture. It’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce without burrata and add fresh burrata after reheating for that luscious finish.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta and sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Then add fresh burrata just before serving to keep that creamy dreamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni and fettuccine work wonderfully, feel free to use penne, tagliatelle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to cook it al dente to hold up well with the creamy sauce.
Is there a vegan alternative for the burrata and cream?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a vegan-friendly sauce. For burrata, seek out vegan burrata made from plant-based ingredients or simply omit it and add extra fresh herbs and nuts for texture.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is quite mild, thanks to just a 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, which are optional. You can easily adjust or omit them based on your heat preference without losing the essence of the dish.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely! The roasted red pepper sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. When ready to eat, warm it up gently and add cream and Parmesan before tossing with the pasta for quick assembly.
What’s the best way to reheat this pasta without drying it out?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to bring back the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the pasta and clump the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs Recipe is a true winner that brilliantly balances rich, comforting creaminess with the fresh brightness of herbs and roasted peppers. It’s one of those dishes that feels elegant yet is incredibly straightforward to prepare—a perfect way to impress yourself and your loved ones any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to experience these flavors dancing on your taste buds and to hear that it’s quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luscious and vibrant Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and fresh herbs, blending roasted red peppers into a smooth, velvety sauce enhanced by Parmesan and heavy cream. Perfectly complemented by tender pasta and creamy burrata, this Italian-inspired vegetarian main course is both comforting and elegant, ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces pasta (such as rigatoni or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (12 oz) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Toppings and Garnish
- 2 burrata balls (about 4 oz each)
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Peppers and Season: Stir in the drained roasted red peppers, tomato paste, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture cook for 3 to 4 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Puree the Sauce: Transfer the pepper mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender in the skillet to puree the sauce until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Finish the Sauce: Return the smooth sauce to the skillet if blended separately. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly and meld the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce. Toss everything to coat the pasta evenly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the sauce consistency to your preference.
- Plate and Garnish: Divide the creamy pasta among serving plates. Top each portion with a whole burrata ball. Generously sprinkle with chopped fresh basil, parsley, and chives for a fresh herbal finish. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives and omit or use vegan burrata if available.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or toasted sourdough bread for a complete meal.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Use pasta shapes like rigatoni or fettuccine that hold sauce well for the best texture.
