If you’re dreaming of a pasta dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs is about to become your new obsession. This Italian-inspired recipe swirls silky roasted red pepper sauce through perfectly cooked noodles, then crowns it all with creamy burrata and a vibrant shower of fresh herbs. Every twirl is rich, savory, and just a little bit indulgent, making it perfect for both a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for company.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs is just how unfussy the ingredient list is. Each element brings something special to the table, whether it’s the sweet smokiness of roasted peppers or the luscious creaminess of burrata. Don’t skip a thing—each ingredient really shines!
- Pasta (12 ounces): Rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine all work beautifully, so pick your favorite shape for maximum sauce-catching power.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds fruity depth and helps sauté the aromatics to golden perfection.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Sweetens and rounds out the base of the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds an irresistible aromatic punch—don’t be shy!
- Roasted red peppers (1 16-ounce jar, drained and chopped): These are the star, lending a smoky-sweet flavor and gorgeous color.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch for balance and warmth.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates that signature velvety sauce texture everyone loves.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Delivers savory, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Enriches the sauce and adds glossy body.
- Burrata cheese (1 ball): The showstopper—tear it fresh over the pasta for creamy decadence.
- Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brightens everything up with freshness and color.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Another herbaceous pop that pairs beautifully with the red pepper sauce.
How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your favorite pasta shape in well-salted water, following package directions until it’s just al dente. Before draining, carefully scoop out a cup of that starchy pasta water—it’s liquid gold for your sauce. Drain the pasta and set aside while you get the sauce going.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it soften and turn translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and stir for another minute, just until it’s fragrant and irresistible.
Step 3: Build the Red Pepper Sauce
Add the chopped roasted red peppers and, if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Let everything mingle and cook for another 2–3 minutes, so the flavors can really get to know each other. Transfer this mixture to a blender or grab your immersion blender and blend until smooth and silky.
Step 4: Creamy Dreamy Finishing Touches
Pour the blended sauce back into your skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and butter. Let the sauce bubble gently for 3–4 minutes, until it’s creamy, glossy, and just begging for pasta.
Step 5: Toss Pasta and Serve
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece in that luscious sauce. If it seems a bit thick, drizzle in some reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect silky consistency. Divide your Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs among bowls, then tear the burrata over the top. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh basil and parsley, and serve right away.
How to Serve Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs
Garnishes
Garnishing really takes this dish to the next level. Scatter plenty of fresh basil and parsley over the top for a burst of color and herbal aroma. If you’re feeling extra, add a drizzle of your best olive oil, a few extra curls of Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for some crunch.
Side Dishes
This pasta is rich and flavorful, so it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. Warm, crusty bread is always a welcome addition—perfect for swiping up any leftover sauce. If you want to serve a protein, grilled chicken or shrimp are fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, try serving the Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs family-style in a big, shallow bowl, with the burrata torn dramatically over the center. Or, plate individual servings with a swirl of sauce, a generous tuft of herbs, and a cloud of burrata on top. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a scattering of toasted breadcrumbs make gorgeous, flavorful finishing touches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Store any extra Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, keep the burrata separate and add it fresh when serving, so it stays creamy and luscious.
Freezing
While the sauce itself freezes well, pasta with cream sauces can sometimes lose their silky texture after thawing. If you’d like to freeze, store just the blended red pepper sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and finish with cream, cheese, and pasta when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until heated through and creamy again. Add the burrata and herbs just before serving for that fresh-off-the-stove flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred?
Absolutely! Roast fresh red peppers in the oven until charred, peel off the skins, and chop them before blending. This gives an even deeper, smokier flavor to your Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs.
What pasta shapes work best for this sauce?
Short tubes like rigatoni or penne are wonderful for catching all that creamy sauce, but long pasta like fettuccine or tagliatelle is also delicious. Pick what you love—there’s no wrong answer here!
Is there a substitute for burrata?
If burrata is hard to find, fresh mozzarella is a good backup. For an extra creamy touch, you could also dollop on some ricotta or even a spoonful of crème fraîche.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap the cream for your favorite plant-based alternative, use vegan butter and Parmesan, and skip the burrata or use a vegan soft cheese. The sauce itself is naturally dairy-free before you add the finishing touches.
How spicy is this pasta?
With just a half teaspoon of red pepper flakes, it’s pleasantly warming but not fiery. Feel free to adjust the amount (or leave it out) depending on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a bowl of Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata and Herbs—each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh. I hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own, whether for a cozy dinner or your next dinner party. Trust me, it’s a dish that always brings a little extra joy to the table!
