If you’re craving a comfort meal that’s both luxurious and simple to make, Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Tortellini is your new best friend. This dish combines pillowy cheese tortellini with a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce that’s been elevated by the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe promises creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Tortellini recipe is a tried-and-true formula that balances flavor and ease. The sauce is made from scratch using simple ingredients like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, ensuring freshness and depth without relying on store-bought shortcuts. The roasted red peppers add a natural sweetness and vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing and flavor-packed. Plus, the use of cheese tortellini means you get a perfect bite every time, with no fuss in making pasta from scratch.

The method is straightforward: sauté garlic, blend in the roasted peppers, then stir in cream and cheese. This technique guarantees a velvety sauce that clings to every tortellini. You’ll find that the seasoning is just right but can be adjusted to your taste. And because it’s all cooked in one pan (except the pasta), cleanup is minimal — a win for busy weeknights!

Shopping List

8 ounces cheese tortellini – fresh or frozen works well
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing garlic
1 cup roasted red peppers, diced – jarred or homemade
1 cup heavy cream – the base of our rich Alfredo sauce
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – freshly grated for best flavor
2 cloves garlic, minced – adds aromatic depth
Salt and pepper – to taste
Fresh basil – for garnish and a pop of freshness

Equipment Breakdown

Large pot – for boiling the tortellini
Large skillet or sauté pan – to prepare the sauce
Knife and cutting board – for mincing garlic and dicing peppers
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir the sauce gently
Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini
Blender or immersion blender (optional) – to puree the roasted red peppers for a smoother sauce

Directions: Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3 to 5 minutes until they float to the surface and are tender. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the diced roasted red peppers and cook for another 2 minutes to warm through.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce (Optional)

For a silky smooth sauce, transfer the garlic and roasted pepper mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pan. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Return the blended sauce to the skillet (if you removed it). Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then slowly add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

If you love the creamy texture and roasted red pepper flavor of this dish, you might also enjoy Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni for another pasta variation bursting with rich flavors.

Substitutions by Diet

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for the cheese.
Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, made with cheese tortellini and no meat products.
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular tortellini with gluten-free cheese tortellini available in many grocery stores.
Lower Fat: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan cheese slightly, though this will affect the richness.

Don’t Do This

Don’t overcook the tortellini – it should be al dente to hold up well in the sauce.
Don’t rush melting the Parmesan cheese into the sauce; adding it slowly over low heat prevents clumping.
Don’t skip seasoning – salt and pepper make a big difference in balancing flavors.
Don’t use pre-grated Parmesan that contains anti-caking agents, as it won’t melt smoothly.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store leftover Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
This dish does not freeze well due to the cream sauce’s texture, so plan to enjoy it fresh or within a few days.

Reader Questions

Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred?

Absolutely! Roasting your own red peppers at home adds a smoky depth and freshness. Simply char them over a gas flame or under the broiler until the skin blisters, then peel and dice. Use them just like the jarred variety in this recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe with shrimp?

Yes! Adding shrimp is a fantastic way to boost protein. Sauté peeled and deveined shrimp with garlic before making the sauce, then toss them in at the end. For a similar delicious twist, check out the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini recipe for inspiration.

Can I substitute the heavy cream for half-and-half?

You can, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy. If using half-and-half, simmer gently to avoid curdling, and consider adding a little extra Parmesan to maintain thickness.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir in a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Fresh chopped chili peppers can also be sautéed with the garlic for a fresh heat.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni – a saucy pasta alternative with roasted red pepper goodness
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini – a seafood twist on tortellini in a luscious garlic cream sauce
Classic Alfredo Sauce – master the basics for all your creamy pasta cravings
Roasted Red Pepper Soup – a comforting starter with the same smoky sweetness

See You at the Table

This Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Tortellini is one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying without taking hours in the kitchen. The smoky roasted red peppers paired with the classic Alfredo sauce make it special enough for company but simple enough for a weeknight. Garnished with fresh basil, it’s a feast for the senses that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Pull up a chair, serve it hot, and enjoy every luscious bite!

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