Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can hold a candle to pasta. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe that combines the richness of creamy tomato sauce with the heartiness of meatballs — Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The creamy pink sauce, made with fresh ingredients, envelops the pasta and meatballs in a warm embrace that’s hard to resist. Let’s explore this delightful recipe together!

The Upside of Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs

Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of vibrant tomato sauce, buttery onions, and savory meatballs creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This dish is versatile, allowing you to use either homemade or store-bought meatballs, making it accessible for any busy weeknight. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your meal while keeping everything deliciously creamy and satisfying.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz meatballs: Freshly homemade or store-bought frozen.
• 1 cup tomato or pasta sauce: You can use a bit of the sauce from the 28 oz can of tomato sauce.
• 3 tbsp salted butter: For that rich flavor.
• 1 medium onion: Finely diced for sweetness.
• 6 garlic cloves: Minced for an aromatic kick.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: To sauté the onions and garlic.
• 1 tsp salt: To enhance the flavors.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: For a touch of herbaceous goodness.
• 1 tsp black pepper: To add a hint of spice.
• 28 oz tomato sauce or diced tomatoes: The base of your pink sauce.
• 1 cup half-and-half: This makes the sauce creamy.
• ½ cup Parmesan: Freshly grated, plus 2 tbsp for topping.
• 16 oz pasta: Fusilloni, rotini, or your favorite spiral pasta.
• Fresh basil leaves: For garnish and a hint of freshness.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Here are the essential tools you will need to whip up this delicious dish:

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Skillet: To sauté the onions and garlic.
• Wooden spoon: For mixing and stirring.
• Large bowl: To combine the meatballs with the sauce.
• Grater: For fresh Parmesan cheese.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.

Make Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs: A Simple Method

Now that we have our ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

To the skillet, add 3 tablespoons of salted butter and let it melt. Stir in the salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper, mixing well. Then, pour in the 28 oz can of tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes) and the 1 cup of half-and-half. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 4: Add the Meatballs

If you’re using frozen meatballs, make sure to heat them according to package instructions. Once heated, add the meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. If you’re using homemade meatballs, simply add them to the sauce and let them soak in the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the meatballs have finished simmering, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy pink sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Stir in the ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with additional Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for garnish.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

This recipe can be adapted for different seasons:

• For warmer weather: Serve the pasta chilled as a pasta salad by allowing it to cool and adding fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and spinach.
• For colder months: Add more spices like red pepper flakes for a kick or incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Little Things that Matter

Here are some tips to elevate your Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs:

• Using freshly grated cheese will enhance the flavor and texture of the sauce.
• Don’t skip the fresh basil; it adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
• A splash of red wine can add depth to the sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
• For added creaminess, consider using a mix of cream cheese and half-and-half.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of half-and-half to loosen the sauce.
• You can also freeze the pasta and sauce in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs FAQs

Can I use different types of meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to use beef, chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian option. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding them to the sauce.

What pasta works best with this sauce?

Fusilloni and rotini are great choices as their twists and turns hold onto the sauce beautifully. However, you can use any pasta you love!

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or any plant-based cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce to kick up the heat. Adjust to your taste preference!

Here are some other delicious recipes to try out over the weekend:

Time to Try It

Gather your ingredients and embark on the delicious journey of making Creamy Tomato & Onion Pasta (Pink Sauce) with Meatballs. This recipe is not only straightforward but also allows you to enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or a warm afternoon, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!