Irresistible Red Pepper Rigatoni: A Creamy Delight

Name: Red Pepper Rigatoni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup jarred roasted red peppers; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 12, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Red Pepper Rigatoni is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The rich flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds without overwhelming them
Its striking color adds visual appeal that brightens any dining experience
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh salad

One time, I made this dish for my friends during a movie night, and let’s just say there were no leftovers. one pan pasta delight They practically licked their plates clean and declared me the “Pasta Wizard” of our friend group.

Red Pepper Rigatoni

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Rigatoni Pasta: Choose sturdy rigatoni to hold onto the luscious sauce perfectly; feel free to use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Roasted Red Peppers: Look for jarred roasted red peppers for convenience; they add a sweet smokiness that elevates the dish. For more inspiration, check out this Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
Fresh Garlic: Use minced fresh garlic for the best flavor; its aromatic qualities will enhance every bite.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture; substitute with half-and-half if you want something lighter.
Parmesan Cheese: Always opt for freshly grated parmesan; it melts beautifully and adds depth to the sauce.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances flavors and helps sauté the garlic without burning.
Italian Herbs: Dried basil and oregano work wonders in bringing out those classic Italian flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; always season as you go for maximum flavor impact.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook your rigatoni until al dente in salted boiling water, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and get ready for some deliciousness.

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—until it dances around your kitchen like it’s auditioning for a cooking show.

In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers and heavy cream. Blend until smooth and creamy—this is where all the magic happens!

Pour your lovely pepper cream into the pan with garlic. Keep it on low heat while adding grated parmesan cheese slowly. Stir continuously until melted and incorporated—trust me, you’ll want this cheese goodness!

Once your pasta is cooked and drained (do not rinse!), add it directly into the sauce. Toss gently until every piece is coated in that glorious red pepper cream—a moment of true culinary bliss!

Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs as needed. Taste-test until it sings harmoniously on your palate—don’t worry if you have to sneak another spoonful during this process; I won’t tell!

Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired—the presentation should be as delightful as the taste! Enjoy this dish alone or share it with loved ones; either way, it’ll win hearts and stomachs alike!

You Must Know

Red Pepper Rigatoni is not just a dish; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavor and color
The creamy sauce beautifully complements the rigatoni, making it a showstopper for any dinner table
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting your red peppers to enhance their sweetness. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, then combine it with the sauce for a perfect blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for protein. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs or chili flakes for an extra kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Red Pepper Rigatoni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive its luscious texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality olive oil to elevate the flavor profile of your sauce
Don’t rush the simmering process; allow the ingredients to meld beautifully
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for optimal flavor

Cooking this Red Pepper Rigatoni reminds me of dinner parties where friends would gather, plates piled high, laughter echoing through the kitchen as we savored every bite.

FAQ

What is Red Pepper Rigatoni?

Red Pepper Rigatoni is a pasta dish featuring roasted red pepper sauce blended with cream. creamy mozzarella pasta.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

How do I prevent my sauce from curdling?

Always add cream at low heat and stir continuously for a smooth consistency.

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