This Rose Shrimp Pasta Italian Pink Sauce comes together in about 30 minutes and is all in one pot for a quick and easy dinner that your family will love! Switch up the shrimp for chicken or veggies to suit your taste, or use it as a ‘clean out the fridge’ meal to make it your own. Seriously, you’re just a few steps away from a comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl! Let’s dive into this delightful pasta recipe that’s sure to impress your family on any busy weeknight.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Shrimp
- Pasta
- Butter
- Onion
- Garlic : 3 cloves crushed
- Tomato Sauce
- Tomato Paste
- Heavy Cream
- Italian Seasoning
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Salt and Pepper
- Shredded Parmesan
- Herbs for Garnishing
Let’s Get Cooking!
Step-By-Step Instructions:
Cook the Pasta : In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, this generally takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain your pasta but be sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water for later. Trust me, that liquid gold is crucial for helping your sauce come together!
Sauté Aromatics : While your pasta is cooking, grab a big skillet and melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in your chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and get ready for that heavenly smell to fill your kitchen, cook until fragrant, typically about 30 seconds.
Stir in Tomato Paste : Now, stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute. You’ll want to scrape the yummy bits off the bottom of the pan to incorporate that rich flavor!
Add Spices : Sprinkle in oregano, salt, and a couple of pinches of black pepper. Mix it all together well, letting the spices bloom in the heat for about 30 seconds.
Create the Sauce : Next, pour in your 2 cups of tomato sauce and ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir until well combined, then add ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it thicken for about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Pasta & Sauce : Toss in your cooked pasta, and if the sauce is too thick for your liking, add in some of that reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Add Parmesan : Stir in about ½ cup of shredded Parmesan, cooking until it’s all melted and creamy. This is when you’ll want to realize just how luscious this sauce has become!
Garnish & Serve : Plate it up and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Dive in immediately, while it’s oh-so-warm and comforting.
Why I Love This Recipe
Honestly? This is my go-to recipe when I need something quick yet satisfying on the table. It’s comfort food at its finest, and every time my family digs in, I hear oohs and aahs, nothing warms my heart more! What I love most is how adaptable this dish is; you can mix in whatever you have lying around in the fridge, whether it’s leftover veggies or a different kind of protein. Plus, it’s a winner in my house, so you know it’s a classic!
Serving Suggestions
Looking for what to pair with your gorgeous pasta? I recommend a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread for that extra crunch. A glass of white wine or sparkling water also makes for a delightful combination!
Storage & Reheating
This pasta will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream if it looks too thick. I personally love making this on a Sunday for meal prep, as it holds up so well throughout the week! If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to 3 months. Just defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
If you loved this Rose Shrimp Pasta, Italian Pink Sauce, be sure to check out my Homemade Ravioli Sauce, my Pineapple Habanero Hot Sauce, or my Classic Mornay Sauce!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you’re racing against the clock.
One Pot Wonder
Minimal cleanup required! Everything cooks in one pot, which means less fuss and more time to enjoy dinner with your family.
Budget-Friendly
Uses affordable, everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand, making it a great option for families trying to save without sacrificing flavor.
Comfort Food
Loaded with tons of flavor, this creamy pink sauce will feel like a warm hug, and I guarantee your family will be asking for seconds!
Customizable
Feel free to use whatever ingredients you have in your fridge! This dish might have shrimp today, but why not try chicken, or even some sautéed zucchini tomorrow?
So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! This Rose Shrimp Pasta, Italian Pink Sauce is waiting to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
Rose Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain your pasta but reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a big skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute, scraping the yummy bits off the bottom of the pan.
- Sprinkle in oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well, letting the spices bloom for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in 2 cups of tomato sauce and ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir until combined, then add ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and let thicken for 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Plate it up and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately.