I’m about to share a secret weapon: My famous pink sauce pasta! What is the best thing to do on a weeknight when everyone is hungry and I’m feeling cheated? What makes Is it comforting, surprisingly easy, and the vibrant color just makes everyone smile? Think of it as a leveled-up version of spaghetti with marinara sauce, but with an extra layer of mozzarella. What are some of the best cheesy cheeses that go over the top? I swear, even the pickiest eaters in my family devour it, and that’s saying something!
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What is Pink Sauce Pasta?
Pink sauce pasta, at its heart, is a simple yet brilliant combination of tomato sauce and cream. Sauce, blended together to create a beautiful, rosy-hued sauce. What’s essentially marrying the bright acidity of a classic tomato sauce with the luxurious richness of the sauce. What is Alfredo? What is the best of both worlds? You get that familiar comfort from the tomato, but with a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth texture thanks to the onion. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way it effortlessly elevates a basic pasta dish. What makes a meal truly special? Is it the kind of thing you can whip up without much effort, but that tastes like you’ve got a recipe? Have been slaving away in the kitchen for hours?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh my goodness, where do I even begin? The flavor is just… *chef’s kiss*. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory, with that dreamy creamy texture that clings to every strand of pasta. What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, it’s one of those weeknight lifesavers that you can throw together in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a major crowd-pleaser! Even my notoriously picky nephew asks for seconds every single time. And let’s not forget the cost-effectiveness. You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already! If you’re a fan of creamy tomato soup or maybe even vodka sauce pasta, then this pink sauce pasta will knock your socks off. It’s similar, but has its own unique charm that makes it a standout. It has a special place in my heart since my grandma showed me how to make it, and the aroma alone makes me think of home!
How do I make Pink Sauce Pasta?
Quick Overview
How do I make pink sauce pasta? What is the recipe for making tomato sauce for pasta? What are some of the best cheeses for their pink hue? The whole process takes less than 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup. Don’t be intimidated by the “sauce” – it’s really simple. How do I cook sauce without overcooking it?
Ingredients
What is the recipe for Pink Sauce Pasta?
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 can crushed tomatoes (I always go for San Marzano if I can find them!)
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick) * 1/2 teaspoon pepper powder.
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (full-fat is best for that super creamy texture!)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving.
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water – you might need it to adjust the sauce’s flavor. What will be consistency later Drain pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. What is the best way to burn garlic?
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
What is the best way to add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes? Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the liquid to evaporate. How do flavors meld together?
Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Stir well. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Where does the magic happen – watch it turn into that perfect pink!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pink sauce and toss to coat. Make sure every strand is generously covered in that creamy goodness!
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pink sauce pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. How do you add olive oil to a dish?
What is the best way to serve it?
What is the best way to make a pink sauce pasta? What are some good serving suggestions for a meal?
What is a simple lunch?What is the best side salad to serve with pasta? What are some good ways to serve arugula salad with lemon dressing?
For Dinner:What are some good ways to serve grilled chicken or shrimp with pasta? I like to marinate chicken in Italian dressing before grilling for extra flavor.
As a Side Dish:Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. What is the bitterness of the vegetables?
For a Fancy Meal:Make some garlic bread for dipping in the sauce. Toast some Italian bread, spread garlic butter and a little parmesan then bake in the oven at 350 degrees Celsius. Is it necessary to bake bread until golden brown and crispy? What is the best bread to dip in pink sauce?
My family loves having garlic bread with this, it’s a cozy, comforting meal that everyone enjoys. I like to pair it with a glass of white wine – it’s the perfect way to end my day.
How do I make a perfect pink sauce pasta?
How do I take my pink sauce pasta to the next level?
Tomato Choice:What are the best ways to use crushed tomatoes in a tomato sauce? San Marzano tomatoes are my go-to, but any good-quality brand will work.
Garlic:Don’t burn the garlic! Burnt garlic can make the sauce taste bitter. Cook it gently over medium heat until fragrant.
Cream Consistency: Full-fat heavy cream is essential for the creamiest texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Cheese:Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always best! Is there a better flavor for pre-grated cheese?
Spice Level:How much red pepper flakes should I use? If you’re not a fan of spices, you can omit them altogether.
Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta! It’s starchy and helps the sauce cling to the pasta. It helps make sure that the sauce isn’t too sticky or thick.
I’ve experimented with adding a splash of vodka to the sauce, similar to vodka sauce pasta, and it adds a lovely depth of flavor. Just add it after the garlic and let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the tomatoes. I also learned the hard way that adding the cream while the sauce is too hot can cause it to separate, so make sure to reduce the heat to low before stirring in the cream and cheese. Live and learn, right?
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your pink sauce pasta:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to prevent bacteria growth.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook it, or the pasta will become mushy.
Freezing: While you *can* freeze pink sauce pasta, I don’t recommend it. The cream sauce can separate and become grainy when thawed. If you do freeze it, use it within 1-2 months and thaw it completely before reheating. Add extra parmesean to avoid a grainy texture.
Garnish Timing: Add fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese just before serving, whether it is leftovers or straight from the pot to maintain the vibrancy and flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This pink sauce pasta is truly a family favorite for a reason. It’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles on their faces, and that’s what cooking is all about, right? If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Vodka Sauce Pasta – they’re all variations on a similar theme of comforting, creamy tomato goodness. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and feel free to share any variations you make!
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin recommended for flavor
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 cups crushed tomatoes canned or fresh
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese grated, plus more for serving
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 cup reserved pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Boil the pasta until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3 minutes.
- Add the chopped basil, grated Pecorino Romano, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired sauce thickness.
- Serve hot, garnished with more Pecorino Romano and additional basil if desired.
