Description
This Best Pink Sauce Pasta Recipe combines the rich flavors of tomato sauce and creamy cheese for a delicious and comforting meal. Made with penne pasta, a luscious blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and a touch of herbs, this dish is perfect for a quick 30-minute dinner that serves four.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 3 cups dry penne pasta (300 grams)
Sauce
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 2 medium cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 large yellow onion (diced)
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 ounces full fat cream cheese (half a brick)
- 1 cup freshly shredded pizza mozzarella
Garnish
- 1 Tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add Tomato Base: Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, then add dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Create Creamy Sauce: Add the milk and cream cheese to the skillet and stir until the cream cheese melts completely into the sauce. Mix in the shredded mozzarella and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 7-8 minutes, ensuring it does not boil but thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly with the pink sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra mozzarella if desired. Serve immediately for a warm and creamy pink sauce pasta dish.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Do not let the sauce boil after adding the cheese to prevent curdling.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Garnish adds freshness and a pop of color but is optional.
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated mozzarella rather than pre-shredded.
