Ever thought about adding beetroot to your pasta? If not, you’re in for a delicious surprise. This creamy beetroot pasta brings together the natural sweetness of roasted beets and a velvety cream sauce that makes each bite feel like a treat. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up on a weeknight, but it’s special enough to serve at your next dinner party.
The rich, earthy flavor of the beetroot adds a unique twist to the creamy sauce, giving it a vibrant color and a mouthwatering sweetness that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re a beet lover or a pasta enthusiast, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking for something comforting, creative, and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beetroot Pasta
You’ll be hooked from the first bite of this pasta. Here’s why this creamy beetroot pasta stands out:
- Unique Flavor – The natural sweetness of the beetroot paired with the richness of the cream creates a flavor that’s smooth, earthy, and incredibly satisfying.
- Visually Stunning – The vibrant pink sauce isn’t just gorgeous—it’s also a conversation starter at any dinner table.
- Quick and Simple – Ready in under 30 minutes, this pasta is perfect for busy evenings when you want a flavor-packed meal without the hassle.
- Customizable – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even vegetables to make it your own, or enjoy it as a delightful vegetarian option.
From the beautiful color to the unexpected depth of flavor, this creamy beetroot pasta is the perfect way to mix up your pasta routine and enjoy something that’s both comforting and deliciously different.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Beetroot Pasta
Not much is needed to create this vibrant, creamy pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Beetroot – Roasted or boiled beets bring the earthy sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Pasta – Choose your favorite shape—penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine all work great.
- Heavy Cream – This adds the creamy richness that ties the flavors together.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic sautéed to aromatic perfection gives the sauce a savory base.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the creamy sauce with nutty and salty notes.
- Olive Oil – Used to sauté the garlic and add a hint of richness to the sauce.
These ingredients come together to create a beautifully balanced sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Beetroot Pasta
Making this dish is incredibly straightforward and comes together in just a few steps.
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce – Add the roasted beetroot to the skillet, stirring in heavy cream to create a creamy, pink sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Blend the Sauce – For a silky smooth sauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the sauce until it’s velvety and smooth.
- Toss with Pasta – Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until the noodles are well-coated. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve and Garnish – Plate the pasta and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a handful of fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
This pasta is quick, easy, and sure to impress anyone at your table.
What to Serve with Creamy Beetroot Pasta
While this pasta is delicious on its own, here are a few side dishes that will make it even more special:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. |
| Arugula Salad | Fresh, peppery arugula complements the creamy richness of the pasta. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Light, roasted vegetables add a healthy crunch to balance the creamy sauce. |
| Caesar Salad | The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a nice contrast. |
| Grilled Chicken | Smoky grilled chicken adds protein and complements the dish’s flavors. |
| Steamed Broccoli | A simple, healthy side that provides a pop of color and crunch. |
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Beetroot Pasta
This pasta makes fantastic leftovers, and here’s how to store and reheat it:
How to Store Leftovers
- Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make sure the pasta is well-coated in the sauce to keep it from drying out.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to keep the sauce smooth.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, adding a little more liquid if necessary to prevent the pasta from becoming dry.
- Oven: You can also reheat the pasta in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.
Tips for the Best Creamy Beetroot Pasta
A few tips can help you make this pasta even more flavorful:
- Use fresh beets for the best flavor. If you’re using canned or jarred, make sure to drain them thoroughly.
- Roast the beets for a deeper, smokier flavor. You can even roast them in advance and store them in the fridge for convenience.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s great for adjusting the sauce consistency.
- Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked or canned beets?
Yes, you can use canned beets or pre-cooked beets if you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly and blend them well for a smooth sauce.
2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Use coconut cream or almond cream instead of heavy cream, and a vegan Parmesan substitute for the cheese.
3. How can I make the sauce smoother?
For a perfectly smooth sauce, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the beetroot and cream together.
4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein. It pairs especially well with grilled chicken.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
This creamy beetroot pasta brings together the perfect combination of richness, sweetness, and creaminess that will make every bite feel indulgent. It’s an easy, impressive dish that’s sure to brighten up your table!
Creamy Beetroot Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking pasta
- Large Skillet For sautéing garlic and making the sauce
- Blender For blending the beetroot sauce
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta or your preferred pasta
- 1 cup roasted beetroot jarred or freshly roasted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for added heat
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the roasted beetroot to the skillet, and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy beetroot sauce. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan and season with salt to taste.
- Serve the pasta topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a vegan version, use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.