Farfalle Pasta with Mushroom Rose Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish blends comforting flavors with a touch of sophistication. The mushroom rose sauce delivers the perfect balance of acidity from tomatoes and creaminess from dairy (or non-dairy alternatives). It’s a great vegetarian main course and can be customized with add-ins like spinach or protein. Farfalle’s ridges and folds make every bite saucy and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Farfalle pasta (bow-tie pasta)
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Mushrooms (cremini, white, or mixed, sliced)
• Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 6–8 minutes.
3. Add aromatics: Stir in chopped onion and cook until soft, then add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Make the rose sauce: Pour in tomato sauce and stir to combine. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly. Lower heat and slowly stir in the cream, creating a smooth, rose-colored sauce.
5. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Finish and serve: Stir in grated Parmesan (if using) and garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
• Make it vegan: Use coconut milk or cashew cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
• Extra vegetables: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
• Wine deglaze: Add a splash of white wine after sautéing mushrooms for extra depth.
• Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What is rose sauce?

Rose sauce is a blend of tomato sauce and cream, creating a pink-colored, rich and tangy sauce perfect for pasta.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well too—any shape that holds sauce nicely.

What mushrooms are best?

Cremini, white button, or a mix of wild mushrooms all work great in this dish.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but it won’t be as rich. Whole milk or half-and-half is a better substitute than skim.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you use vegetarian cheese or skip it entirely.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

How do I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes, cayenne, or stir in a spoonful of chili paste.

What herbs go well with this sauce?

Basil and parsley are classic, but thyme or oregano also work well.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, stirring in Parmesan or cream cheese adds depth and richness.

What can I serve with it?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Farfalle Pasta with Mushroom Rose Sauce is a simple yet elegant meal that brings together creamy, savory, and umami flavors in a way that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a romantic dinner, or when you just want to treat yourself to something rich and comforting. With its easy prep and versatile ingredients, it’s a pasta dish you’ll come back to again and again.

Farfalle Pasta with Mushroom Rose Sauce

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Farfalle Pasta with Mushroom Rose Sauce is a creamy, savory, and satisfying pasta dish featuring golden sautéed mushrooms and a tomato-cream ‘rosé’ sauce. It’s rich in flavor and simple enough for any night of the week.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 oz farfalle pasta (bow-tie pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or white), sliced
• 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in tomato sauce and stir to combine. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes to slightly thicken.
5. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until smooth and rosy in color.
6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to desired consistency.
7. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in Parmesan cheese, if desired.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

• Use coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan version.
• Deglaze mushrooms with a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
• Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more veggies.
• Great with penne, rigatoni, or fusilli if farfalle isn’t available.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg