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Irresistible Pink Penne Pasta Recipe: Your New Family Favorite!

Pink Penne Pasta

Pink Penne Pasta features al dente penne tossed in a luxurious rosé sauce – the perfect blend of creamy and tomato flavors. This restaurant-quality dish comes together in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For garnish:
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Additional Parmesan
  • Crushed red pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Boil penne in salted water until al dente (about 9 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Make sauce: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Combine liquids: Add marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer 3 minutes.
  4. Add cheeses: Whisk in Parmesan and cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Season: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
  6. Finish: Toss drained penne with sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Serve immediately garnished with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.

Notes

  • For lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream
  • Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for protein
  • Vegetarian-friendly (check Parmesan for vegetarian rennet)
  • Sauce thickens as it cools – serve immediately
  • Leftovers can be reheated with a splash of milk

Nutrition

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