Description
This creamy Pink Sauce Pasta combines the rich flavors of marinara sauce and heavy cream to create a luscious, velvety pasta dish. Enhanced with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of red pepper flakes, it’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for any weeknight or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
- Prepare the pink sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add red pepper flakes: Add red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.
- Add marinara and cream: Stir in the marinara sauce, then add the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the pink sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Optionally, add extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your creamy pink sauce pasta!
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; penne or spaghetti work best.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure marinara sauce contains no animal products.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
