Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake

Name: Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake for a cozy dinner. This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the charred sweetness of roasted red peppers and creamy cheese that brings everything together. I never fail to impress friends and family with this recipe—it’s both comforting and a little gourmet at the same time. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Trust me, this pasta bake will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:10:21.596Z

When I first tried making Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake, I was amazed at how the flavors mingled together. The roasted peppers add a depth of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory cheese and pasta. I experimented with different kinds of cheese and settled on a blend of mozzarella and goat cheese because it provides that creamy texture I adore.

One key tip I learned is to blend the roasted peppers until completely smooth. This not only makes the sauce silky but also ensures that every bite is infused with that rich roasted flavor. It's a small step, but it makes a huge difference in the overall dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich roasted flavor that elevates any weekday meal
Creamy, cheesy goodness that pulls the dish together
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or entertaining

      

The Star Ingredient: Roasted Red Peppers

Roasted red peppers are the undeniable star of this pasta bake, providing a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish. When selecting your peppers, aim for those with vibrant color and slight give when pressed. This indicates ripeness and sweetness. If you have time, roasting them yourself over an open flame or in the oven can deepen their flavor, bringing out a wonderful charred sweetness that store-bought versions might lack.

To roast peppers at home, place them under the broiler for 15-20 minutes, turning them frequently until the skin is blackened and blistered. Once roasted, place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for about 10 minutes; this makes peeling them easier. This little extra step can profoundly impact the final flavor, lending the dish a gourmet touch.

Cheese Choices and Texture Tips

The combination of mozzarella and goat cheese in this recipe creates a delightful balance of creaminess and tanginess. Mozzarella melts beautifully, providing a stretchy texture, while goat cheese adds a richness that elevates the dish. Make sure to choose a good quality mozzarella; fresh mozzarella can enhance the creaminess but will retain more moisture. If you're concerned about a watery texture, opt for low-moisture mozzarella instead or even mix in some grated Parmesan for depth.

If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you could substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which retains creaminess while adding a hint of tang. Just be cautious to add it after blending to maintain a smooth sauce. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite blend; cheddar or fontina can also work well for a sharper taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake is an excellent make-ahead meal, perfect for busy evenings. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for a day or two. When ready to serve, simply extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure it is heated through and bubbly. For long-term storage, consider freezing the unbaked dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; it can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to cook from frozen, avoid thawing it beforehand; just increase the baking time to about 45-50 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on it, covering the dish with foil if the top browns too quickly. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave, though the oven will retain the pasta's texture better.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a flavorful Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake:

Pasta Bake Ingredients

8 ounces penne pasta
2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting to keep the process smooth and enjoyable.

Instructions

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

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

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

Combine Pasta and Sauce

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

Assemble and Bake

Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and goat cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy the aromatic blend of flavors in this comforting pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also swap out the cheese types based on your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This comforting pasta bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Consider preparing garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that complements each cheesy bite. If you want to elevate the dining experience, serve it with a bold red wine like a Chianti, which will complement the roasted notes of the peppers beautifully.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes on top before serving. You can also top it with additional fresh herbs like parsley or oregano, which will add brightness and depth to the dish.

Variations to Try

There are countless ways to customize this Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake! For a protein boost, you can add cooked chicken or Italian sausage to the mix. If you’re looking to incorporate more veggies, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. These additions will not only enhance the nutritional value but will also provide a variety of textures and flavors.

If you're following a gluten-free diet, feel free to swap the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to cook it al dente, as it may become softer than traditional pasta once baked. Alternatively, you could repurpose this dish with whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap penne for any pasta shape you enjoy, like rigatoni or rotini.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

Try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese, or use a non-dairy alternative.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just adjust the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding sautéed onions, spinach, or even artichokes for more depth in flavor.