Pink Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
This Perfectly Pink Pasta recipe features tender pasta drenched in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce with garlic, shallots, and Parmesan cheese. The subtle heat of red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick, while fresh basil garnish brightens the dish. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a comforting Italian-inspired meal perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water if needed later to loosen the sauce.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Reduce the heat to low, then slowly add the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and takes on a lovely pink hue. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy pink sauce. Cook together for 1 to 2 minutes to let the pasta soak in the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish generously with freshly chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich.
- If you prefer, add cooked protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
