Roasted Red Pepper Beef Pasta

Name: Roasted Red Pepper Beef Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup roasted red peppers, diced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Dinner Recipes

When I first experimented with this Roasted Red Pepper Beef Pasta, I never imagined the combination of flavors would be so delightful. The sweet, smoky essence of roasted red peppers pairs beautifully with the rich, savory beef, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. This pasta not only satisfies the palate but is also quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. I can say with confidence that this pasta dish has become a staple in our home, loved by everyone around the dinner table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:54:28.482Z

In my pursuit of creating a flavorful yet simple pasta dish, I stumbled upon the magic of roasted red peppers. Blending them into a creamy sauce elevates the entire meal, making it feel luxurious without requiring much effort. I recommend roasting your own peppers if you have the time; it enhances the flavor immensely.

While perfecting this recipe, I discovered that adding a touch of cream gives the sauce a velvety texture that beautifully coats the pasta. You can also customize the spices to adjust the heat level according to your taste preferences.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers shines through in every bite.
Creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, making each forkful a delight.
Quick to prepare, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.

      

Choosing the Right Pasta

While penne pasta is a fantastic choice for this Roasted Red Pepper Beef Pasta, consider using rigatoni or farfalle for a different texture. Rigatoni’s ridges catch the creamy sauce beautifully, and farfalle adds a playful shape to the dish. Whichever pasta you choose, be sure to cook it until al dente; this ensures it holds up well when mixed with the sauce, providing that delightful bite you want.

Don’t forget to vigorously salt your pasta water! A well-salted pot allows flavors to penetrate the pasta as it cooks, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. I usually recommend using about 1-2 tablespoons of salt per 4-6 quarts of water.

Ingredient Substitutions and Enhancements

If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider swapping out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives will provide a leaner option while still tasting delicious. Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the meat while cooking to infuse more depth of flavor.

For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Just be mindful of the cooking times; make sure to sauté them until they're tender and have released their moisture to avoid a watery sauce.

Storing and Reheating

This Roasted Red Pepper Beef Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. This helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents the dish from drying out.

If you'd like to freeze this dish, I recommend doing so before combining the pasta with the sauce. Store the cooked pasta and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them together for a quick meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup roasted red peppers, diced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned.

Remove excess fat if needed.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the diced roasted red peppers and heavy cream into the beef mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing well to coat the pasta. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Tips for Perfecting the Sauce

When making the sauce, allow the heavy cream to simmer gently with the roasted red peppers. This not only melds the flavors beautifully but also provides a rich, velvety texture that clings to the pasta. Keep the heat on medium to avoid scorching the cream; you want it to bubble softly, not boil vigorously.

To boost the flavors even further, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of heat. These additions will complement the sweetness of the roasted red peppers and add complexity to the sauce.

Garnishing Ideas

Garnishing your Roasted Red Pepper Beef Pasta can elevate the dish incredibly. Fresh basil not only adds visual appeal but also contributes an aromatic layer that cuts through the richness of the sauce. I recommend tearing the basil leaves rather than chopping, as this releases more of their essential oils and fragrance.

For an extra crunch, try adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving. They provide a lovely textural contrast and enhance the dish’s presentation. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a tangy sweetness that complements the roasted red peppers beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the beef and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the beef and sauce mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy!

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms to maintain a hearty texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.