Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days ahead, refrigerate in an airtight container, and reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook the pasta fresh just before serving.
What pasta shape can I use instead of ring pasta?
Small shells, ditalini, or elbow macaroni work well. Any small pasta shape will coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking when adding cream?
Remove the pan from heat for 30 seconds before stirring in heavy cream. Add it slowly while stirring gently to avoid curdling the tomato base.
Can I use crushed tomatoes from a carton instead of a can?
Yes. Use 3.5 cups crushed tomatoes (equivalent to a 28 oz can). The flavor and texture will be nearly identical.
How do I scale this recipe for a crowd?
Double or triple all ingredients except red pepper flakes—start with the same amount and adjust to taste, as heat compounds quickly in larger batches.