Keto Roasted Red Pepper Fettuccine
This hearty pasta dish combines tender fettuccine with smoky sausage in a creamy roasted red pepper sauce. The peppers are pureed into a vibrant, velvety base that's enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something comforting yet sophisticated. The smoky sausage adds protein and depth, while fresh parsley brightens the rich sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes, this one-pan meal delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil and cook fettuccine to al dente according to package directions, then drain, rinse and set aside
- 2
Brown the sliced smoked sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes, then drain grease
- 3
Add entire jar of roasted peppers including liquid to a mini food processor or blender and blend until smooth
- 4
Pour the roasted red pepper puree into skillet with smoked sausage and stir over medium heat until heated through
- 5
Slowly add heavy cream, stir to combine and continue heating about 10 minutes or until sauce begins to thicken
- 6
Add drained pasta, Parmesan cheese, and parsley to skillet and gently toss to coat
Tips
Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick during tossing.
Choose a high-quality smoked sausage like roasted garlic variety for the best flavor depth.
Don't skip rinsing the pasta after draining to prevent it from continuing to cook and becoming mushy.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in airtight container.
Sauce can be made 1 day ahead and reheated gently before tossing with fresh pasta.
Serve immediately while hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook the pasta as it will continue cooking when tossed with hot sauce.
Add cream slowly to prevent curdling from temperature shock.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Yes, turkey smoked sausage works well and will reduce the fat content while maintaining the smoky flavor profile.
What if I don't have a food processor for the peppers?
You can mash the peppers with a fork for a chunkier texture, or use an immersion blender directly in the jar.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored leftovers will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or pasta water to restore creaminess.