Midnight Pasta for Two | Rosé Pasta Recipe
This comforting rosé pasta, also known as pink or blush pasta, is a quick and easy meal perfect for late nights. Inspired by long days working and studying, this recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to end the day.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 4 ounces bacon, chopped
- 1/2 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or spaghetti)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Reserved pasta water
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2
Step 1: Render the Bacon Fat
Place chopped bacon in a cold pot.
Turn on the heat to medium and cook, rendering out the bacon fat.
Step 2: Remove and Reserve Bacon
Once the bacon is crispy, turn off the heat and remove the bacon with a slotted spoon.
Place bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Step 3: Sauté Shallot and Garlic
Pour off most of the rendered bacon fat, reserving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.
Return the pot to medium heat and add the chopped shallots. Sauté until translucent.
Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add marinara sauce to the pot and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Add the cooked bacon back to the sauce.
Pour in heavy cream and stir.
Add most of the parmesan cheese, reserving some for garnish. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Reduce heat to low and simmer gently until the pasta is cooked.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions in boiling salted water until al dente or desired doneness.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce.
Toss to combine, adding a little pasta water at a time if needed to thin the sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Stir in chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with remaining parmesan cheese.
