This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this creamy pasta recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. The mix of ditalini pasta, savory sausage, and a luscious sauce makes it a standout meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total time of 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of mild Italian sausage, garlic, and parmesan cheese delivers an irresistible taste that you’ll crave.
- Versatile Meal: This creamy pasta can be served as a main course or paired with a side salad for a complete dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
- Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in warmth with every bite.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious creamy marry me ditalini sausage pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the ditalini pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables to enhance their flavors.
Ingredients
For this creamy marry me ditalini sausage pasta, gather the following ingredients:
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 ounces ditalini pasta (cooked al dente)
Sausage Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage
Flavor Base Ingredients
- ½ cup sweet onion (diced small)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-1.5 tablespoons tomato paste
- Pinch kosher salt (to taste)
- Few turns cracked black pepper (to taste)
Creamy Sauce Ingredients
- ½ – ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
- ¾ – 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
Garnish Ingredients
- Red pepper flakes (optional garnish)
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Ditalini Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, add avocado oil. Once hot, add the mild Italian ground sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add diced sweet onion to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in low sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Slowly whisk in heavy cream until well combined. Add grated parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until melted.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly. Season with kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your creamy marry me ditalini sausage pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired, and enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Serving this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. Garnish with extra parmesan and red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Individual Plates
- Plating each serving individually gives a restaurant feel. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a touch of elegance.
Side Salad
- Pair the pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the creaminess of the pasta well.
Garlic Bread
- Serve with warm garlic bread for a delightful crunch. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
Wine Pairing
- Consider serving this pasta with a glass of white wine. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the richness of the dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
To ensure your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality sausage and fresh herbs if possible.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the ditalini until al dente. This keeps it firm and prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness. Less cream gives a lighter dish.
- Season Well: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors throughout cooking.
- Garnish Wisely: Use garnishes like parsley or red pepper flakes for an aromatic finish that looks appetizing.
- Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess without separating.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal experience when enjoying Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta. Here are some great options:
Garlic Roasted Vegetables
A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic adds color and nutrition to your plate.Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing balances out the richness of the pasta.Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy contrast and adds vibrant green color to your table.Caprese Skewers
Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers make for an easy-to-eat appetizer that complements Italian flavors well.Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy dishes.Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide an excellent texture contrast alongside creamy pasta dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.
- Using overcooked pasta: Always cook ditalini pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and won’t hold its shape in the dish.
- Neglecting to season properly: Don’t skip adding salt and pepper. Seasoning enhances the flavor of your creamy sauce and sausage.
- Rushing the cooking time: Take your time, especially while sautéing the onion and garlic. This step builds a flavorful base for your pasta.
- Skipping the broth: The chicken broth adds depth to the sauce. Don’t leave it out; it balances the creaminess of the dish.
- Not letting it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes lets flavors meld together, making each bite more enjoyable.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a container.
Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta special?
This dish combines comforting creamy elements with savory sausage, making it both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or use different proteins like chicken or turkey sausage.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Consider using whole wheat ditalini pasta and reducing the amount of cream while increasing vegetables for added nutrients.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavors appeal to kids, making it a great family meal option.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough for various customization options. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients to make it your own!
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delectable dish that perfectly balances rich, comforting flavors with a creamy texture. This quick and easy recipe combines al dente ditalini pasta with savory Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and a luscious parmesan sauce that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this meal can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it a go-to option for satisfying cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 ounces ditalini pasta (cooked al dente)
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage
- ½ cup sweet onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ – ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
- ¾ – 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat avocado oil and brown the sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add diced onion to the skillet; sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer. Whisk in heavy cream followed by grated parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce; toss gently to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with optional red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
