Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to add some excitement to your pasta dishes? Look no further than bell peppers! These sweet and crunchy vegetables pair perfectly with a variety of ingredients, from creamy sauces to savory meats. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering bell pepper pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic combinations like roasted red bell peppers with garlic and basil to more adventurous options like spicy sausage and bell pepper pasta skillet, there’s something for everyone in this collection of flavorful and simple recipes. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a pasta enthusiast looking to try something new, these 20 bell pepper pasta recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Roasted Red Bell Pepper Pasta with Garlic and Basil
This flavorful pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted red bell peppers with the pungency of garlic and the brightness of basil, all tied together with a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, roasted red bell peppers, and dried basil to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Bell Pepper and Spinach Pasta Bake
Creamy Bell Pepper and Spinach Pasta Bake: A flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender pasta with roasted bell peppers, wilted spinach, and a rich cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. Toss bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted bell peppers, and spinach mixture. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Bell Pepper Pasta Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines spicy sausage, colorful bell peppers, and pasta for a flavorful one-pot meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and garlic; cook until peppers are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add marinara sauce and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bell Pepper and Mushroom Alfredo Pasta
Add a pop of color and flavor to your pasta dish with this simple and delicious recipe that combines sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms with creamy Alfredo sauce. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread on the side.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Bell Pepper Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with sweet bell peppers, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of Italian dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large bell peppers (any color)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
3. Slice bell peppers into strips and toss with 1 tablespoon Italian dressing.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, bell pepper strips, and feta cheese. Toss gently to combine.
6. Drizzle with remaining Italian dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Bell Pepper Pasta Toss
Sun-Dried Tomato and Bell Pepper Pasta Toss: A flavorful and colorful twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and roasted bell peppers with al dente pasta and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bowtie)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pasta with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper; cook according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped bell peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the pan and stir for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta and roasted vegetable mixture in a large bowl; toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bell Pepper and Zucchini Pasta Primavera
This vibrant spring-inspired pasta dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers and zucchinis with the creaminess of a light sauce, all tossed together with al dente spaghetti. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add zucchini, garlic, and white wine (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the vegetable mixture. Toss to combine, adding Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Bell Pepper Pasta
A classic combination of succulent shrimp, flavorful bell peppers, and rich garlic butter sauce, all served on a bed of al dente pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and bell peppers to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and tender.
4. Stir in olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter sauce and top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the creamy richness of pesto, all wrapped up with the crunch of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced into strips
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper strips and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add pesto to the skillet and stir to combine with the bell peppers. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the bell pepper and pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts on top of the pasta. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Bell Pepper and Bacon Pasta Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the smokiness of bacon, all wrapped up in a creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté bell peppers in a little oil until tender. Add crumbled bacon and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, bell pepper mixture, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Black Bean Pasta with Lime Dressing
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted bell peppers, black beans, and tangy lime dressing for a fresh and exciting pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted bell peppers, black beans, garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta and lime dressing. Toss to coat.
6. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bell Pepper and Sausage Rigatoni in Tomato Sauce
This hearty pasta dish combines sweet bell peppers with spicy sausage and rich tomato sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying rigatoni shape. A perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb rigatoni
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausages and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked rigatoni and sausage mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta with Arugula
This refreshing summer pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of peppery arugula. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slice roasted bell peppers into strips and add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, goat cheese, and arugula in a large bowl. Toss to combine. Top with roasted bell pepper strips and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Bell Pepper and Olive Pasta with Feta Cheese
This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combines sweet bell peppers, savory olives, and tangy feta cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the sliced olives and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top the pasta mixture with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, bell peppers, and creamy sauce with al dente penne pasta for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Add cooked penne pasta and chicken back to the skillet; toss to combine with creamy sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil
Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy with this light and satisfying pasta dish, featuring roasted bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes and cooked bell peppers to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Combine pasta, tomato-bell pepper mixture, and chopped basil. Toss well to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bell Pepper and Artichoke Pasta with Parmesan
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the tender artichokes, all tied together with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add garlic and artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the bell pepper-artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Corn Pasta with Cilantro Dressing
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers and corn with the tanginess of cilantro dressing, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. fresh cilantro leaves and stems
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add garlic and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the corn is lightly browned.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro leaves and stems with a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Blend until smooth.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the bell pepper-corn mixture. Top with cilantro dressing and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Sausage Orzo with Fresh Herbs
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of sausage, all wrapped up in a delightful orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add bell pepper strips and cook until tender.
5. Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked orzo, sausage mixture, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Chickpea Pasta with Lemon Zest
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the nuttiness of chickpeas, all tied together with a bright and zesty lemon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and chickpeas in a little olive oil until lightly toasted.
4. Add roasted bell peppers, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Toss to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the bell pepper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of bell peppers in these 20 deliciously simple pasta recipes. From classic combinations like roasted red bell pepper with garlic and basil to bold twists like spicy sausage and bell pepper skillet, there’s something for every taste and skill level. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these flavorful recipes are sure to please. With ingredients ranging from mushrooms to goat cheese to black beans, get ready to spice up your pasta game with the humble bell pepper as the star of the show.
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