Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake

Name: Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 large roasted red peppers, peeled and seeded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love whipping up this Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake for cozy nights in with family or friends. The combination of creamy roasted red peppers and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that's not just comforting but also bursting with flavor. I’ve discovered that the secret to elevating this dish is in the seasoning and the crusty top, which adds a delightful crunch. Each scoop promises a hearty meal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:19:21.156Z

One evening, I had some roasted red peppers left over and decided to put them to good use. I blended them into a creamy sauce, and let me tell you, the aroma filled my kitchen and drew everyone in! The combination of garlic and roasted red peppers was an instant hit, and the whole dish came together seamlessly.

As I plated the pasta bake, the crispy, golden top contrasted beautifully with the creamy underneath. It's truly a dish that impresses visually and, of course, with every bite. Taking the extra time to bake it really brings those flavors to life!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy roasted red pepper sauce
A crunchy topping that provides perfect texture
Comfort food that satisfies both taste and heart

      

Pasta Selection Tips

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for this bake. While penne works beautifully due to its hollow shape that captures the creamy sauce, you can experiment with other varieties like rigatoni or even farfalle. Just ensure that whatever pasta you choose is hearty enough to hold up during baking without becoming mushy. Al dente pasta is best, as it continues to cook while baking, ensuring it remains firm yet accommodating to the sauce.

Always remember to salt your boiling water generously. This is an essential step that enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. A good rule of thumb is to use about a tablespoon of salt per gallon of water, which infuses the pasta with taste right from the start.

Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Secrets

The richness of the roasted red pepper sauce sets this dish apart. Adjusting the proportions of heavy cream to roasted peppers offers flexibility; for a lighter sauce, you can decrease the cream or substitute part of it with vegetable or chicken stock. This allows for an even more robust flavor without compromising on creaminess. It's essential to blend until the mixture is completely smooth—this ensures that every bite delivers the same mouthwatering experience.

If you want to enhance the sauce further, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a spoonful of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor. Each added element introduces new dimensions, making the bake uniquely yours.

Storage and Reheating

This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy evenings or gatherings. Once assembled but unbaked, it can be covered tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to take it out 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.

For leftover pasta bake, store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place servings in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you're in a rush, microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but be mindful not to overheat, as it can dry out.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare the Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake:

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
2 large roasted red peppers, peeled and seeded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil

Have all your ingredients ready to create a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a blender, combine the roasted red peppers, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, red pepper sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and drizzle olive oil over the top.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the pasta mixture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this dish with additional vegetables. Spinach, artichokes, or even sautéed mushrooms can be great additions. Adding sautéed onions can also provide a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the roasted red peppers. Just ensure that any extra ingredients are cooked beforehand so they don't release excess moisture during baking.

For a protein boost, consider folding in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even chickpeas. If you prefer a vegetarian option, adding lentils can make it heartier while still keeping it meat-free.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta bake with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A simple side of garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully, making it a complete meal that's great for gatherings.

For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins instead of a large dish. This not only enhances the dining experience but also makes for an impressive plate which can be garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Cooking with Children

This recipe is perfect for involving kids in the kitchen. They can help with tasks like mixing the sauce in the blender, measuring the ingredients, or sprinkling cheese and breadcrumbs on top. It's a wonderful way to teach them about cooking while creating lasting memories.

Make it a fun activity by allowing them to design their own pasta bake creations with their favorite mix-ins. This way, everyone gets a personalized dish while learning valuable cooking skills!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought roasted red peppers?

Yes, store-bought roasted red peppers work perfectly in this recipe.

→ What alternative pasta types can I use?

You can use any shape pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking it the following day.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze individual portions. Just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.