Fettuccine with Sweet Pepper–Cayenne Cream Sauce
This fettuccine dish features a creamy, sweet pepper-based sauce enhanced with a touch of cayenne for gentle heat. Roasted peppers provide natural sweetness and a smoky undertone, while cream adds richness and smooth texture. The sauce clings beautifully to fettuccine, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals. Balanced in flavor, it offers both comfort and excitement. A colorful, elegant pasta dish that’s easy yet impressive.
Ingredients
- 250g fettuccine pasta
- 2 large red bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 small yellow bell pepper (optional for sweetness)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional for smoky depth)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté sliced bell peppers until soft and slightly charred.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Return the sauce to the pan and stir in cream, cayenne, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked pasta and toss well, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until creamy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
- Roasting peppers enhances sweetness and flavor depth.
- Adjust cayenne depending on spice tolerance.
- Use fresh cream for a smoother texture.
- Blend sauce thoroughly for a silky finish.
- Parmesan adds both saltiness and richness.
- Pasta water helps bind sauce perfectly.
- Yellow peppers increase sweetness.
- Fresh herbs brighten the final dish.