Easy Pink Sauce Pasta Recipe

Creamy Pink Sauce Pasta Recipe – This easy-to-make pink sauce pasta combines the richness of cream with the depth of tomato paste, creating a velvety and flavorful sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s made with simple ingredients like olive oil, butter, Parmesan cheese, and dry white wine, making it a go-to meal for busy evenings. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe uses pasta such as penne or rigatoni, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for all occasions. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick meal for yourself, this creamy pasta dish will meet your needs with ease.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (rigatoni or penne preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup tomato paste (see note)
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion is soft and lightly golden.
3. Add Flavor
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the white wine and let it simmer for about 30 seconds to reduce slightly.
4. Incorporate Tomato Paste and Cream
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth. Let it bubble gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Finish the Sauce
   • Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe comes together effortlessly.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of tomato paste, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and satisfying sauce.

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Tips

• Use Fresh Parmesan: For a smoother sauce, grate your Parmesan cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Low and Slow Heat: Cook the cream on low heat to prevent it from curdling.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Additions: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra heartiness.
• Vegetarian Option: Include sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
• No Wine: Replace the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable stock if you prefer.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

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FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and thin with pasta water if needed.

What pasta works best for pink sauce?
Rigatoni and penne are great choices as their shapes hold the sauce well, but any pasta can be used.

Can I freeze the sauce?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well as they may separate upon thawing. It’s best to make it fresh.

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Serving

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread or a fresh baguette to soak up the sauce.

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Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a hint of spice.