This red pepper cream sauce is rich, creamy, and packed with the smoky sweetness of roasted red bell peppers. It’s the perfect accompaniment for pasta, chicken, or vegetables, offering a smooth, savory flavor with just the right hint of creaminess. The beauty of this sauce lies in its versatility and simplicity, making it ideal for a quick dinner or a gourmet dish. The roasted red pepper combined with a basic cream sauce creates a luxurious, silky texture that will make your dish taste restaurant-quality, while still being easy enough for a weeknight meal.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Roasted Red Peppers: Use jarred roasted red bell peppers or roast them fresh at home.
- Cream: Heavy cream works best for a rich texture, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth, but garlic powder can be substituted.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor. Grated Pecorino Romano can be used as an alternative.
- Olive Oil: Enhances the flavor, but butter can work if needed.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add for a touch of heat, but this is optional
Step-by-Step Directions
- Roast the Red Peppers: If using fresh red bell peppers, preheat the oven to 400°F, place peppers on a baking sheet, and roast for 25 minutes until charred. Once cooled, peel the skins and remove seeds.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine roasted red peppers, sautéed garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Sauce: Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan, and cook over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Pour the red pepper cream sauce over your choice of pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tips
- Roasting the red peppers yourself adds extra depth to the flavor.
- Stir the sauce constantly to prevent it from sticking or burning.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.
Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe
Description
This creamy red pepper cream sauce blends roasted red bell peppers with a rich, velvety cream base. Perfect for pasta, chicken, or vegetables, it's a delicious and versatile sauce that elevates any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Total Carbohydrate 6g2%
- Protein 6g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
