Italian Pink Sauce – Rose Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, dreamy Italian Pink Sauce Pasta at the end of a long day. This luscious dish combines the best of both worlds— the bold tang of a tomato-based sauce with the rich, velvety smoothness of a cream sauce. The result? A perfectly balanced, rose-colored masterpiece that's bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

I first discovered this dish while traveling through Rome, where a tiny trattoria served up the most unforgettable pink sauce pasta. It was love at first bite! After countless attempts to recreate that perfect balance of flavors at home, I've finally nailed the ultimate Rose Pasta Recipe—easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Italian Pink Sauce

Get ready to fall head over heels for this ultra-creamy, flavor-packed pasta. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

First, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.

This recipe is also super versatile. You can keep it vegetarian or add protein like shrimp, chicken, or pancetta for a heartier meal.

It's budget-friendly yet tastes like a gourmet dish. No need for expensive ingredients—just simple, high-quality staples that come together beautifully.

Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist the creamy, slightly tangy, and utterly comforting flavors of pink sauce pasta.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Italian Pink Sauce lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Tomato Sauce & Tomato Paste – These are the foundation of the dish, providing deep, rich tomato flavor. The paste adds an extra layer of concentration and thickness, ensuring the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta.

Heavy Cream – This is what gives the sauce its signature “pink” hue and silky texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap it for half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich.

Garlic & Onion – These aromatics build the base of the sauce, adding depth and a touch of sweetness. Freshly minced garlic works best for that irresistible, slightly nutty fragrance.

Parmesan Cheese – For an extra layer of umami and creaminess, freshly grated Parmesan is a must. It melts into the sauce, enhancing the flavors beautifully.

Pasta of Choice – I love using penne or rigatoni for this recipe since their ridges help capture the sauce, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.

How To Make This Rose Pasta Recipe

Creating this mouthwatering Italian Pink Sauce Pasta is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid will help bring the sauce together later.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Next, pour in the tomato sauce and stir in tomato paste for a richer flavor. Let this simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you like a bit of heat, now's the time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, watching the sauce turn that beautiful rosy hue. Stir until well combined, then season with salt, black pepper, and a touch of sugar to balance the acidity.

Toss in the drained pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat every piece perfectly. Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until everything is beautifully combined and creamy.

Finally, garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Italian Pink Sauce Pasta for another delicious meal.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but a splash of milk or cream when reheating will bring it back to its velvety consistency.

For longer storage, freeze the pink sauce separately (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta gently over medium-low heat, adding a little extra cream or pasta water to restore its smoothness. Avoid high heat, as it may cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Italian Pink Sauce Pasta is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize the dish:

Want a spicier kick? Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy chili oil.

Looking for a protein boost? Stir in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta for extra flavor and heartiness.

Need a dairy-free option? Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

Prefer a veggie-packed version? Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrients and texture.

For a low-carb alternative, serve the pink sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.

No matter how you customize it, this creamy, comforting Rose Pasta Recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious variations!

Print