Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Goat Cheese

This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Goat Cheese is a creamy, flavorful dish that brings together the richness of roasted red pepper puree, tangy goat cheese, and Parmesan. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of ingredients creates a balanced, comforting pasta that will become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is bursting with flavor thanks to the roasted red peppers and creamy goat cheese, creating a comforting sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. The goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess, while the Parmesan provides a savory depth. It’s easy to make, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish, and is a great way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without a lot of effort. Perfect for busy nights when you want a cozy meal that feels a little more gourmet.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 large garlic cloves, minced

• 1 jar (16 ounces) roasted red peppers, drained and roughly chopped

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• ½ teaspoon salt

• Black pepper to taste

• 4 ounces goat cheese

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese

• Parmesan cheese, shaved, for serving

• Parsley, finely chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the directions on the package.

Prepare the Red Pepper Mixture:

1. While the pasta is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until softened.

3. Add the roasted red peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Blend the Red Pepper Sauce:

1. Carefully transfer the red pepper mixture to a heat-safe food processor or blender. Pulse until the mixture is pureed (it may have some texture).

2. Pour the puree back into the skillet and add 1 tablespoon of butter.

3. Cook until the butter is melted, then add the vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Add the Cheese:

1. Add the goat cheese to the skillet and stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined and creamy.

Combine with Pasta:

1. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the red pepper sauce.

2. Add the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, and mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

Serve:

1. Serve the pasta with shaved Parmesan and additional parsley on top for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little extra heat.

• Vegetarian Option: For a fully vegetarian meal, use vegetable broth and make sure the Parmesan is rennet-free.

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

• Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try using cream cheese, ricotta, or feta for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute penne or rigatoni with any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or fusilli.

Can I make the red pepper sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the red pepper sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute, plant-based goat cheese, and vegan Parmesan. You can also swap the whipping cream with coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

While the pasta and sauce can be frozen, the texture of the goat cheese may change after freezing. If you plan to freeze it, store the sauce separately from the pasta and reheat it gently.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can add more goat cheese or Parmesan, or you can cook the sauce a little longer to reduce and thicken it.

Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred ones?

Yes! If you have fresh roasted red peppers, you can definitely use them instead of the jarred variety. Just roast and peel the peppers before using them in the recipe.

Conclusion

This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Goat Cheese is a simple yet flavorful meal that brings together a creamy sauce, tangy goat cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor. With the right balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your cooking rotation!

Print