Italian Pink Sauce – Rose Pasta Recipe

There’s something truly irresistible about a bowl of creamy, velvety Italian Pink Sauce Pasta. The way the sauce delicately clings to every strand of pasta, offering a perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and rich cream, makes this dish a must-try for any pasta lover.

this Recipe

I first discovered this rose pasta recipe during a trip to Italy, where a charming little trattoria served a version so luscious that I just had to recreate it at home. Over the years, it has become a staple in my kitchen—quick, easy, and satisfying for weeknights yet elegant enough for a dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Pink Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, dreamy pasta dish. Italian Pink Sauce Pasta is everything you want in a comfort meal—rich, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare.

First, it comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a lifesaver.

Secondly, it’s the perfect balance of flavors. The acidity of tomatoes pairs beautifully with the smooth richness of heavy cream, creating a sauce that’s indulgent yet not overpowering.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different proteins like chicken, shrimp, or even pancetta. Plus, it works well with a variety of pasta shapes, from penne to fettuccine.

Finally, it’s budget-friendly. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate creamy tomato pasta recipe, this is it!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this rose pasta recipe lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in achieving that perfect creamy, tomato-infused sauce.

Pasta: The foundation of the dish! Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best since their textures help hold onto the sauce. But honestly, any pasta shape will do!

Tomatoes: A good-quality canned crushed tomato or tomato puree is key to achieving the smooth, rich consistency we need. If you prefer a slightly chunkier texture, you can opt for diced tomatoes instead.

Heavy cream: This is what gives the sauce its signature pink hue and luxurious creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Garlic and onions: These aromatic ingredients add depth and bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor.

Parmesan cheese: A generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan helps thicken the sauce and adds a delightful salty, nutty finish.

A large skillet or saucepan will be your best friend for cooking the sauce, and a good pasta pot is essential for boiling your pasta to al dente perfection.

How To Make This Italian Pink Sauce

Making this Italian Pink Sauce Pasta is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, delicious meal every time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. This step helps develop the sauce’s depth of flavor. Add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Now comes the magic—lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. The moment it blends with the tomatoes, you’ll see that gorgeous pink hue appear. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Toss in the cooked pasta, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for an extra creamy finish.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them properly to keep the flavors intact.

For the fridge, transfer the pasta into an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

If you’d like to freeze the sauce, do so before adding the pasta. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little cream if needed.

Avoid freezing pasta with the sauce, as it can turn mushy when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this rose pasta recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are some delicious ways to make it your own:

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled sausage.
• Make it spicy: Amp up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Go vegetarian: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for an extra boost of flavor.
• Dairy-free option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based alternative. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious!
• Low-carb twist: Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a lighter option.

No matter how you tweak it, this Italian Pink Sauce Pasta is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this classic dish!

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