Italian Pink Sauce Pasta
Italian Pink Sauce Pasta is a beloved family dish that perfectly combines creaminess and flavor. The rich sauce is balanced by the savory taste of sausage, creating a comforting meal that appeals to everyone. What makes this recipe even better is its quick preparation time; you can have it on the table in under 45 minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding the whole family, or bringing a dish to a gathering, this pasta is sure to impress. The delightful blend of flavors and creamy texture makes it a standout comfort food that no one can resist. It’s versatile and easy to make, ensuring that it will be a hit at any mealtime.
With this dish, you can expect satisfied smiles and requests for seconds, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients for Italian Pink Sauce
Here are the ingredients along with suggested quantities:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
- Pasta of your Choice
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Tomato Puree: 1 can (15 ounces)
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped (or to taste)
- Salt: 1-2 teaspoons (for pasta water and to taste)
- Parmigiano or Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
Step-by-Step Process for Italian Pink Sauce with Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat a sauce pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage in pieces without stirring immediately. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust.
- After the crust forms, use a wooden spoon to scrape the sausage and stir occasionally until browned and no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- If there’s enough oil left from the sausage, lower the heat to medium and add 1 medium shallot, finely chopped. If there isn’t enough oil, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Sauté the shallots for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
- Sauté the garlic for 1 minute while the tomato paste caramelizes. Stir everything together and sauté for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Make the Pink Sauce
- Add 1 can (15 ounces) of crushed tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil and 1-2 teaspoons of salt. Return the sausage to the pot.
- Let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Boil the Pasta
- While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Remember to save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
- After 20 minutes, add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the sauce. Stir and remove from heat.
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmigiano or Parmesan cheese until the sauce reaches a pinkish color. Adjust the cream amount for a richer taste.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until well coated. Serve with extra Parmesan and fresh basil on top.
Variations
- Vodka Sauce: For a classic twist on the pink sauce, you can try making Spicy Vodka Sauce. This variation adds a bit of richness and depth, making it a popular choice.
- Spicy Version: If you want to add some heat to the dish, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes and swap out the sweet sausage for hot sausage. This will give the sauce a nice kick.
- Creamy Red Pepper Sauce: Another delicious alternative is a Creamy Red Pepper Sauce. It offers a different flavor profile while maintaining that creamy texture you love in pink sauce.
Pro Tips
- Browning the Sausage: When you add sausage to the pot, resist the urge to stir immediately. Allow it to sit and develop a nice crust, as stirring too soon can cause steaming rather than searing, which affects flavor and texture.
- Bring Sausage to Room Temperature: For the best results, take the sausage out of the fridge about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Stir Occasionally: While the sauce is simmering, be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from burning on the bottom of the pan. This will help maintain a smooth, flavorful sauce.
FAQ’S
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, including turkey or chicken sausage. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato puree?
Yes, you can use canned crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, or even whole tomatoes. Just blend them if you prefer a smoother sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just keep in mind that the flavors may deepen over time.
What pasta works best with this sauce?
This sauce pairs well with various pasta types, including penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Choose your favorite!
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the spice level, adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes you add. For a milder sauce, use less or omit it entirely.
What can I serve with Italian Pink Sauce?
This dish goes well with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I add more vegetables to the sauce?
Yes! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.
