Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake

Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Bake – Creamy, Comforting, and Full of Flavor

If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dish that comes together effortlessly, this roasted red pepper pasta bake is about to become a weekly favorite. It’s creamy, vibrant, and packed with smoky sweetness from the roasted peppers. I first made this dish on a busy weeknight when I wanted comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen — and it quickly became one of my most requested recipes from friends and family.
This easy homemade roasted red pepper pasta bake recipe is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks where you want something irresistible but simple.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

3 large roasted red peppers (about 1 ½ cups), drained
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
teaspoon dried oregano
cup vegetable broth
cup milk (or unsweetened plant-based milk)
½ cup grated cheese (mozzarella or any mild melting cheese)

For the Pasta Bake

350 g (12 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated parmesan-style cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package instructions).
Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and vegetable broth.
Simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
Return the sauce to the pan, add 1 cup milk and ½ cup grated cheese, stirring until melted.

3. Combine Pasta & Sauce

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Pour the cooked pasta into the dish.
Add the creamy roasted red pepper sauce and mix well.

4. Bake

Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan-style cheese evenly on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
Finish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

1. Add Protein

You can mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or chickpeas to make the dish heartier.

2. Swap the Cheese

If you prefer a stronger flavor, use cheddar or a spicy cheese blend.

3. Make It Creamier

Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the blended sauce for extra richness.

4. Add Vegetables

Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can be added for extra nutrients and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Freezer

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Oven: Cover with foil and heat at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes.
Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each round.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

2. Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely — gluten-free pasta works perfectly. Just avoid overcooking it before baking.

3. Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?

Yes, they work great and save time.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

5. Can I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chili when cooking the onions.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, serves 6)

Calories: ~390
Protein: ~15 g
Carbohydrates: ~48 g
Fat: ~14 g

This roasted red pepper pasta bake is the kind of comforting, flavorful dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s creamy, colorful, and surprisingly simple — the perfect easy homemade pasta bake recipe for busy nights or relaxed weekends.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment, share it with someone who loves pasta, or explore more of my cozy weeknight dinner ideas on the blog. Enjoy every delicious bite!