Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne
If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor, Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne is your new go-to recipe. This dish brings together the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese and cream cheese, creating a luscious sauce that lovingly coats every bite of perfectly cooked penne. It’s comfort food elevated — simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for guests. Ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, savory goodness? Let’s get started!
Why It Deserves a Spot
This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in under 30 minutes, making it both accessible and quick. The combination of goat cheese and cream cheese adds a layer of tangy richness that’s balanced by sweet, smoky roasted red peppers. Unlike heavier cream sauces, this one feels indulgent but not overwhelming. Plus, with the aromatic Italian seasoning and fresh basil garnish, every forkful offers a harmonious blend of flavors that feel fresh and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Your Shopping Guide
- 8 ounces penne pasta: Look for high-quality durum wheat pasta for the best texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity depth to your sauce.
- 1 medium onion: Choose a firm, fresh onion for sweetness and aroma.
- 3 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide essential aroma and bite.
- 1 jar (12 ounces) roasted red peppers: Ensure they are drained well; jarred roasted red peppers save time but you can roast your own if preferred.
- 1 cup cream cheese: Softened; full-fat cream cheese will make the sauce creamier.
- 4 ounces goat cheese: Crumbled goat cheese adds tang and depth. Opt for a mild, creamy variety.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances flavor complexity.
- Salt and pepper: To taste; enhances all the flavors.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish; adds a fresh, peppery note and visual appeal.
Appliances & Accessories
- Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta to al dente perfection.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: To sauté onions and garlic and prepare the sauce.
- Food processor or blender (optional): To puree the roasted red peppers smoothly into the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce gently without damaging your pan.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For precise ingredient quantities.
Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente — usually about 10-12 minutes. Once done, reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown or burn.
Step 3: Prepare the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Add the chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet and stir to combine. Let the peppers warm through for about 3 minutes. At this point, for an ultra-smooth sauce, you can transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and puree until silky. Alternatively, leave it chunky for added texture.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese and Goat Cheese
Return the pepper mixture to the skillet (if you pureed it). Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and crumbled goat cheese. Stir continuously until both cheeses melt completely, creating a creamy, luscious sauce.
Step 5: Season It Up
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that rich, creamy sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Fit It to Your Goals
- Make it lighter: Substitute cream cheese with light cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat sauce.
- Add protein: Stir in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas for a more filling meal.
- Boost the veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, zucchini ribbons, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a gentle heat and smoky undertone.
- Make it vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan goat cheese alternatives, and swap pasta for gluten-free if desired.
If You’re Curious
This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne is part of a growing family of creamy pasta dishes that are both approachable and packed with flavor. If you love this recipe, you might enjoy exploring other comforting pastas like the Creamy Tomato Parmesan Penne or the flavorful Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Penne. For a refreshing side, pairing it with a vibrant salad such as the Roasted Beet Goat Cheese Arugula Salad creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Save It for Later
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms.
- This pasta also freezes well — portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- For meal prep, pack individual servings with a handful of fresh basil leaves on the side to add just before serving.
Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne FAQs
Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred?
Absolutely! Roasting your own red peppers adds a fresh, smoky flavor. Simply roast them under the broiler or on an open flame until charred, then peel and chop. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before adding them to the sauce.
What can I substitute for goat cheese if I don’t have any?
If you’re out of goat cheese, feta cheese or cream cheese can work as alternatives. Feta provides a similar tang but is saltier and crumblier, while cream cheese offers creaminess without the distinct tang.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Swap the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Most gluten-free pastas cook similarly, but be sure to follow package instructions for best results.
How can I make the sauce creamier without adding more cheese?
Adding a splash of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk while melting the cheeses can enhance creaminess. Alternatively, a small amount of butter stirred in at the end also enriches the texture beautifully.
Desserts to Finish
- Lemon Olive Oil Cake – A light, citrusy finish to cleanse the palate.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse – Rich, creamy, and surprisingly healthy.
- Vanilla Basil Panna Cotta – An elegant, herb-infused dessert to complement the meal.
- Berry Crumble – Sweet, warm, and perfect for any season.
Ready, Set, Cook
Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and in just a few simple steps, you’ll be savoring a bowl of Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. It’s a recipe that rewards you with creamy texture, smoky sweetness, and tangy brightness all in one harmonious dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this pasta will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes without browning.
- Add chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet and stir to combine. Warm through for about 3 minutes. Optionally, transfer mixture to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth, or leave chunky.
- Return pepper mixture to skillet if pureed. Lower heat and stir in softened cream cheese and crumbled goat cheese. Stir continuously until cheeses melt and sauce is creamy.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Add reserved pasta water slowly if sauce is too thick to loosen consistency.
- Add drained penne to the skillet with sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat pasta evenly.
- Transfer pasta to serving plates or bowl. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen sauce.
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
- For a lighter version, substitute cream cheese with light cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
- Add protein or extra veggies for a more filling and nutritious meal.
