Creamy Pink Sauce Pasta: A Delightful Comfort Dish

Creamy Pink Sauce Pasta is the perfect combination of rich tomato flavor and creamy goodness. This dish features al dente pasta tossed in a luscious pink sauce made from tomato passata, cream, milk, and a touch of mozzarella for added indulgence. The subtle heat from red chili flakes and the aromatic hint of basil make it a crowd-pleaser for pasta lovers. It’s quick, easy, and ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Quick Benefits

This pasta dish comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy nights. The creamy sauce balances tomato acidity with a rich, velvety texture, while the touch of mozzarella gives it a comforting, cheesy finish. You can also customize it with chicken, shrimp, or your favorite veggies for added variety.

Essential Ingredients

Base:

• 300g pasta of choice (penne recommended)

Sauce Base:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small red onion, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce:

• 1½ cups tomato passata (or puree/sauce)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• ⅓-½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 chicken bouillon cube, crumbled
• Pinch of sugar
• Red chili flakes to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced red onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the tomato passata, dried basil, crumbled bouillon cube, sugar, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and mozzarella cheese. Let the cheese melt and the sauce thicken.
5. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Adjust the sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed. Serve immediately.

Health Benefits

While this dish is indulgent, it also provides some nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, while the cream and cheese contribute calcium and protein. Adjusting the amount of cream or using a lighter alternative can make the dish more calorie-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Pink Sauce Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil on top enhances the flavor and presentation. Pair with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch.

Creative Variations

• Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add color and nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Increase the red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in some parmesan for a sharper, nuttier flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to refresh the sauce.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality tomato passata for the best flavor.
• Adjust the consistency of the sauce with pasta water to keep it creamy and not too thick.
• For a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta.

What other pasta shapes work well? Penne is ideal, but rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli also hold the sauce nicely.

Can I make it dairy-free? Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese for a creamy, plant-based version.

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