If you're looking for a rich and creamy pasta dish that comes together in no time, this Pasta Rosa recipe is for you! A luscious blend of savory mushrooms, garlic, spinach, and tomatoes in a creamy tomato sauce, all tossed with tender pasta and topped with freshly grated parmesan. It's a weeknight win, and the leftovers make an incredible school lunch packed in a thermos!
Pasta Rosa is the perfect balance of comfort food and a veggie-packed meal. The name "Rosa" comes from the beautiful pink hue that develops when marinara meets heavy cream. This dish is versatile and family-friendly—ideal for a cozy dinner and just as delicious the next day.
If you like simple pasta recipes like this, try making Parmesan Garlic Pasta. This Pasta Rosa also pairs well with a side of homemade Spinach Pie.
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Ingredients
Every ingredient in this Pasta Rosa recipe plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Mushrooms – Brings dimension to the dish.
- Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor with a delicious aromatic kick. (I LOVE garlic!)
- Spinach – Adds additional nutrition, freshness and a pop of color.
- Diced tomatoes – Provides the base for the Rosa sauce, adding natural sweetness and acidity.
- Your favorite spaghetti sauce – A shortcut to deep, developed flavors with minimal effort. I usually use Mid's Pasta Sauce.
- Heavy cream – Makes the sauce ultra creamy and smooth. You can also use half and half if you want it a little less creamy.
- Noodles – The perfect vehicle for soaking up the delicious Rosa sauce.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty finish to bring everything together.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Making this Pasta Rosa recipe is simple, yet the flavors are anything but basic. Follow these steps to bring this creamy tomato pasta to life.
- Step 1: Sauté the vegetables – Cook the mushrooms, garlic, and spinach in butter until fragrant and tender.
- Step 2: Build the sauce – Stir in diced tomatoes, spaghetti sauce, and heavy cream.
- Step 3: Cook the pasta –Toss the pasta in the sauce.
- Step 4: Combine and serve – Top with parmesan, and enjoy!
Hint: Save a cup of pasta water before draining the noodles—it helps loosen the sauce if needed and makes it cling to the pasta beautifully.
Substitutions
Need to make a swap? Here are some substitution ideas:
- Dairy - Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Or use Coconut milk instead too!
- Greens - Swap spinach for kale if you prefer a heartier green.
- Pasta - Try a different pasta shape like penne or fettuccine for variety.
Variations
Giving the visitor ideas on how they can change this recipe to better suit their dinner guests, or their cultural cuisine, is a great way to increase the chances they make the recipe
- Protein - Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Gluten Free - Use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a dietary-friendly option.
- Heat - Spice it up with red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Equipment
Equipment can have a big impact on how a recipe turns out. Stone bakeware takes longer to heat up than metal pans, and also retain heat for longer, which could make the recipe more watery, or burnt on the outsides.
- Large pot (for boiling noodles)
- Skillet or Dutch Oven
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Cheese grater
Storage
Store leftover Pasta Rosa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or water to bring back the creamy texture.
Top Tip
For an even richer sauce, let the tomatoes simmer for a few extra minutes before adding the cream. This deepens the flavors and enhances the overall dish.
FAQ
Yes! Just ensure your spaghetti sauce is vegetarian-friendly.
That is more of a personal preference on which pasta to use. I would try changing it up each time you make it.
Sure, but I wouldn't freeze it with the noodles in it. Just the sauce alone.
Others to Try
Looking for other recipes like this Pasta Rosa? Try these:
Side Ideas
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Pasta Rosa:
Pasta Rosa Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or large pan
- Wooden Spoon
- Colander
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups your favorite spaghetti sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 12 oz noodles
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms, garlic, and spinach sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and spaghetti sauce, letting it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Turn off heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add the cooked noodles to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan before serving. Enjoy!
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