Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta Recipe

Creamy Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta Recipe: A Divine Twist

Creamy and vibrant, this Italian pink sauce rose pasta dances with luxurious flavors that spark instant kitchen excitement.

Culinary magic happens when simple ingredients blend into something extraordinary.

Smooth tomato undertones mingle with rich cream, creating a sultry sauce that feels both elegant and comforting.

Passionate home cooks adore how quickly this recipe comes together without complicated techniques.

Each twirl of pasta carries silky, blush-colored sauce that promises pure satisfaction.

Mediterranean influences shine through in this delightful dish that feels like a warm embrace.

You’ll fall in love with how effortlessly this recipe turns an ordinary meal into a celebration of taste.

Why Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta Is a Winner

  • Whip Up a Gourmet Delight: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy pasta dish that feels luxurious yet incredibly easy to prepare.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes, making it perfect for both heat-lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: From start to finish, this creamy pink sauce pasta comes together in less than 20 minutes, ideal for busy home cooks craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Charm: Kids and adults alike will adore the rich, velvety sauce that combines the tanginess of tomatoes with the smoothness of cream, creating a universally appealing dish.

What’s in Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta

Pasta Base:
  • Pasta: Classic Italian pasta that holds the pink sauce perfectly.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Provides a rich, smooth base for sautéing.
  • Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
  • Tomato Sauce: Creates the classic red foundation for the pink sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce its creamy, luxurious texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
Seasoning and Garnish:
  • Red Pepper Flakes, Black Pepper: Provide a gentle heat and subtle spice.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, glossy sauce.
  • Fresh Basil: Offers a fresh, herbal garnish to brighten the dish.

How to Cook Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook pasta in salted water until perfectly tender and al dente.

Drain the pasta thoroughly and let it rest to the side.

Step 2: Awaken Garlic Flavors

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sauté minced garlic until it releases its aromatic essence and turns golden, filling your kitchen with a delightful fragrance.

Step 3: Build Tomato Base

Add tomato sauce and sprinkle red pepper flakes into the skillet.

Let the mixture simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld and develop depth for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Create Luxurious Cream Sauce

Blend in the following ingredients:
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Incorporate Silky Butter

Drop butter into the sauce and stir until completely melted, creating a glossy and rich texture.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked pasta into the pink sauce, ensuring every strand is beautifully coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the pasta.

Transfer to serving plates and enjoy immediately while warm and inviting.

Smart Tips for Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta

  • Cook pasta al dente to maintain a slight firmness, preventing mushy results and ensuring an authentic Italian dining experience.
  • Control heat by gradually adding red pepper flakes, allowing you to customize the sauce's intensity to match personal taste preferences.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and smooth melting, avoiding pre-packaged grated cheese which can taste bland.
  • Simmer sauce gently to prevent cream from separating, creating a silky and uniform pink sauce texture.
  • Sprinkle chopped fresh basil just before serving to enhance aroma and provide a bright, fresh flavor contrast to the rich sauce.

Flavor Upgrades for Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpea flour.
  • Spicy Seafood Remix: Add sautéed shrimp or crab meat to the sauce for a protein-packed seafood variation.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Use spiralized vegetable noodles like butternut squash or cauliflower instead of traditional pasta to reduce carbohydrate content.

Food Matches for Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta

  • Fresh Basil Flourish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves generously on top for a burst of aromatic herbaceous flavor that complements the creamy pink sauce perfectly.
  • Protein Power-Up: Add grilled chicken strips, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta to transform this pasta into a hearty main course that satisfies hunger and adds delicious protein.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Serve alongside a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the rich, creamy texture of the pink sauce and cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Bread Companion: Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread or toasted ciabatta slices to soak up the delectable sauce and create a complete, indulgent Italian-inspired meal experience.

Ways to Store Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta

  • Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
  • Warm pasta in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir gently until heated through and sauce regains its creamy consistency.

FAQs

  • What is pink sauce?

Pink sauce is a creamy tomato-based pasta sauce that combines tomato sauce and heavy cream, creating a smooth, rich, and slightly tangy flavor profile with a beautiful pink or rose color.

  • Is pink sauce spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by the amount of red pepper flakes used. In this recipe, you can control the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your personal preference.

  • Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?

Yes, you can substitute dried basil if fresh is not available. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil as a replacement for fresh basil when garnishing the pasta.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta Recipe

Italian Pink Sauce Rose Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy Italian pink sauce rose pasta blends rich tomato and cream flavors for a luxurious dinner experience. Silky smooth sauce coats perfectly al dente noodles, inviting you to savor each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

Sauce Base:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Aromatics:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 grams) butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta in salted water at medium-high heat until perfectly tender with a slight bite, approximately 8-10 minutes. Carefully drain and reserve.
  2. Warm olive oil in a wide skillet over medium temperature, gently sautéing minced garlic until aromatic and lightly golden.
  3. Pour tomato sauce into the skillet, sprinkling red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Allow mixture to gently simmer and develop rich flavors for 3 minutes.
  4. Introduce heavy cream to the sauce, creating a luxurious texture. Integrate Parmesan cheese, whisking smoothly to prevent clumping.
  5. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper, stirring consistently to distribute seasonings evenly.
  6. Add cold butter, letting it melt gradually and create a silky, glossy consistency. Stir until sauce appears uniform and creamy.
  7. Incorporate cooked pasta directly into the sauce, gently folding to ensure each strand is lavishly coated with the rose-colored mixture.
  8. Finish the dish by scattering freshly chopped basil leaves across the top, providing a vibrant, aromatic garnish. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

  • Customize the heat level by adjusting red pepper flakes for those who prefer mild or spicy flavors.
  • Opt for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast as dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version of the sauce.
  • Enhance protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to create a more substantial meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 424 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 334 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 13 g
  • Cholesterol: 56 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star