If you love vibrant food that feels comforting yet a bit decadent, Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs will absolutely capture your heart (and your dinner cravings!). A twirlable tangle of pasta, cloaked in a silky roasted red pepper sauce with a pop of smoked paprika and fresh herbs, finished with a crown of luscious burrata cheese, this dish is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s quick enough for a weeknight, but special enough to wow at a dinner party. Let’s dive into the magic of this dreamy pasta dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This vibrant pasta relies on a handful of everyday ingredients, each earning its spot for flavor, richness, or color. Here’s what you need for the ultimate Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs masterpiece.
- Pasta (12 oz fettuccine or rigatoni): The ideal blank canvas for the creamy, flavorful sauce to cling to.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a lush base for sautéing aromatics and adds a fruity richness.
- Yellow onion (1 small, chopped): Lends gentle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For that essential savory aroma and flavor punch.
- Roasted red peppers (1 (12 oz) jar, drained): The star ingredient, delivering natural sweetness, color, and subtle smokiness.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce ultra-silky and indulgent.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Adds salty, nutty depth to every bite.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, earthy note that truly sets this sauce apart.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential to balance and brighten all the flavors.
- Fresh burrata cheese (1 ball): The crowning glory, oozing creaminess over hot pasta.
- Fresh basil leaves (torn): Their peppery brightness makes every forkful pop.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle for gentle heat, if you love a little kick.
How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta shape—fettuccine or rigatoni work beautifully here—and cook until al dente, following the package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of that precious pasta water; it can help loosen the sauce later. Drain the rest of the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it soften, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. Once the onion turns translucent and sweet, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, releasing its savory aroma but avoiding any browning.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce
Transfer the fragrant onion and garlic mixture into a blender. Add the drained roasted red peppers, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and smoked paprika right into the blender as well. Blitz everything together until you’re left with a smooth, velvety sauce with a gorgeous red-orange color.
Step 4: Warm and Season the Sauce
Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet and set the heat to medium. Let it bubble gently for a few minutes until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened. Season generously with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go for perfect balance. If you crave more smokiness, add an extra pinch of smoked paprika!
Step 5: Coat the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat each strand or tube in that luscious red pepper sauce. If the sauce feels a bit thick, just splash in some of your reserved pasta water until it reaches your ideal sauciness. The noodles should be glossy and very well dressed.
Step 6: Serve and Top with Burrata & Herbs
Spoon the creamy red pepper pasta into bowls and nestle a generous scoop of fresh burrata on top of each portion. Shower the whole dish with torn basil, chopped parsley, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if that’s your style. Serve immediately while the cheese is irresistibly melty.
How to Serve Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs
Garnishes
Crowning your Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs with fresh basil and parsley isn’t just for looks: the herbs lift the dish with color and fragrance. Don’t hold back on the burrata either—it’s the pillow of richness every serving deserves. For extra flair, a dusting of fresh cracked black pepper or a swirl of olive oil brings everything together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines alongside a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlicky sautéed greens. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce, and if you want to offer a protein, roasted chicken or grilled shrimp are lovely (especially for non-vegetarians at the table).
Creative Ways to Present
You can plate Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs family-style in a big serving bowl, or go for individual servings topped with mini burrata balls. Try twirling individual portions into little nests for a sophisticated dinner party look, or scatter edible flowers for a burst of springtime charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs keep surprisingly well. Store cooled pasta and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep any remaining burrata separate to preserve its texture, and add fresh herbs just before serving.
Freezing
The red pepper sauce itself can be frozen for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container—just leave out the heavy cream until reheating for best results. While the pasta can be frozen, note that its texture is best enjoyed fresh. As for burrata, it isn’t freezer-friendly, so always add fresh when serving.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water to bring back the creaminess. Warm the burrata separately to room temperature before adding on top, and refresh with more herbs for a just-made vibe.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While burrata’s creamy center is dreamy, you can swap it for fresh mozzarella, whipped ricotta, or even a spoonful of mascarpone for a different creamy finish.
Is there a lighter alternative for the heavy cream?
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt or unsweetened cashew cream. The result is still velvety and delicious, with a tangy twist or even a dairy-free option if needed.
What pasta shapes work best with this sauce?
Fettuccine and rigatoni are both wonderful, but penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti do the job well. Just choose a shape with enough surface area to soak up all that sauce!
How can I add more protein to this dish?
Sautéed spinach adds a veggie protein boost, or feel free to toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal without overpowering that fabulous sauce.
Will the kids enjoy this pasta?
Most definitely! The sauce is smooth and mildly sweet, and you can leave out the red pepper flakes for a completely kid-friendly Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs enough—it’s that perfect blend of cozy, colorful, and seriously delicious. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a special gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to make you (and your lucky dinner guests) swoon. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the aromas of Italy and pure comfort!
