Italian Pink Sauce – Rose Pasta Recipe

There's something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of pasta coated in a silky, creamy pink sauce. The blend of tangy tomato and rich cream creates a balanced, velvety texture that clings to every bite. Whether you're making a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this Italian Pink Sauce—also known as Rosé Pasta Sauce—is a must-try.

I first discovered this dish while traveling through Italy, where a small family-run trattoria served the most luscious pink pasta I'd ever tasted. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen, offering an easy way to elevate a simple pasta night into something special.

Why You'll Love This Italian Pink Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta sauce. This Italian Pink Sauce is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.

First, it's quick and simple. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this sauce in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

It's also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer it with penne, spaghetti, or even ravioli, this sauce pairs beautifully with all kinds of pasta shapes.

Best of all, it's customizable. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggies to make it heartier, or keep it as a simple vegetarian delight.

And let's not forget the restaurant-quality flavor. This sauce brings the elegance of Italian dining straight to your home kitchen, without the hefty price tag.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Rosé Pasta Sauce lies in its perfect balance of tomato and cream. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients.

Tomatoes are the heart of this sauce. I recommend using high-quality crushed tomatoes or canned San Marzano tomatoes for a deep, rich flavor. If using fresh tomatoes, make sure to blend them smoothly for the best texture.

Heavy cream adds the signature creaminess. It creates the luxurious pink hue and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can swap in half-and-half, though it will be less rich.

Garlic and onions form the aromatic base of the sauce. Sautéing them in olive oil enhances their sweetness and provides a flavorful foundation.

Parmesan cheese brings depth and umami. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and consistency.

You'll also need butter and olive oil for richness, red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, and fresh basil for a bright, herbaceous finish.

How To Make This Italian Pink Sauce

Making this creamy Rosé Pasta Sauce is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to create a luscious, restaurant-quality dish at home.

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Next, pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down further.

Once the tomato base has thickened slightly, lower the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream. Watch as the sauce transforms into a beautiful pink hue. Let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Now, melt in butter and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This step adds richness and enhances the creaminess of the sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese fully melts and incorporates.

Finally, toss in chopped fresh basil for a burst of freshness. At this point, your Italian Pink Sauce is ready to coat your favorite pasta. Combine it with cooked pasta and let everything simmer together for a minute before serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it's so delicious!), you can easily store your Rosé Pasta Sauce for future meals.

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

To reheat, warm the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this Italian Pink Sauce is that it's endlessly adaptable. Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy but still delicious.

Want to add protein? Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier dish.

Make it spicier by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a touch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

For a vegan alternative, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The result is just as creamy and flavorful.

And if you're feeling fancy, stir in a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and onions for added depth.

With so many ways to customize this dish, you'll never get tired of making Italian Pink Sauce. Experiment with different ingredients and find your perfect version!

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