Tortellini in a Spicy Pink Sauce (With Just Enough Attitude)
Because sometimes dinner needs to feel like a warm hug… with a little kick.
This recipe is what Aunt Loretta calls “a pantry miracle.” It comes together in under 30 minutes, tastes like you slaved over it, and has that creamy, peppery bite that makes you forget about takeout. This isn’t your average pink sauce—it’s grown-up, a little flirty, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Ingredients
1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen works fine—just don’t tell Loretta you used dried)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup tomato sauce
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust if you’re sensitive… or spicy)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
How to Make It
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your tortellini and cook according to the package—usually about 3 to 5 minutes if fresh. Drain and set aside, but keep a splash of pasta water just in case your sauce needs a little loosening up later.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and let it cook just long enough to make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria.
Step 3: Bring on the Cream
Pour in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let it all simmer together for 5 to 7 minutes, until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in Parmesan until smooth and glossy. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Toss the cooked tortellini into the sauce and gently fold everything together. If things are looking a bit thick, add a little of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Garnish Like a Pro
Top with fresh basil or parsley and a generous snowfall of Parmesan. Serve hot—and maybe with a crisp white wine if you're feeling fancy.
Aunt Loretta’s Notes
This is what she calls a “Tuesday night crowd-pleaser.” Easy, rich, and done before your favorite show starts.
Want to add protein? Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
Don't skimp on the Parmesan. Ever.