Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini is a quick, comforting pasta dish made with cheese-stuffed tortellini tossed in a silky, flavorful sauce made from roasted red peppers, garlic, cream, and Parmesan. It’s rich, vibrant, and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for a cozy dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet. The roasted red peppers give the sauce a beautiful color and a rich, smoky-sweet flavor, while the cream and cheese add luscious texture. It’s a delicious alternative to tomato or Alfredo sauces, and the cheese tortellini adds heartiness and comfort. Plus, it’s easy to customize and ideal for busy nights.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

directions

this recipe

1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add roasted red peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes to warm through.
4. Transfer the garlic and peppers to a blender or use an immersion blender. Blend until smooth.
5. Return the sauce to the skillet over medium heat. Stir in cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Toss in the cooked tortellini and stir to coat.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in sautéed chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the sauce.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and vegan tortellini and Parmesan.
• Spicy Twist: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Tomato Blend: Mix in a bit of tomato paste or marinara for a more tomato-forward sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Avoid microwaving for long periods, as the cheese and cream may separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just cook according to the package directions and drain well before adding to the sauce.

What’s the best way to roast red peppers?

Char whole peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until blackened, then peel and deseed. Jarred roasted red peppers are a great shortcut.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before tossing with pasta.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use unsweetened plant-based cream and a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep it dairy-free.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or ravioli all work well with this sauce.

What kind of cream should I use?

Heavy cream yields the richest sauce, but half-and-half or whole milk can work for a lighter version.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately. Tortellini texture may change when frozen and reheated.

Is this spicy?

Not unless you add red pepper flakes. It has a sweet, mild flavor by default.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer for a few more minutes, or stir in extra Parmesan to thicken.

What sides go well with this?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully.

Conclusion

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini is an easy, elegant meal that’s full of comforting flavor and stunning color. Whether you’re looking for a meatless dinner option or a quick dish that feels gourmet, this recipe delivers with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. It’s sure to become a favorite in your weeknight rotation.

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