Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe

There's something irresistible about the combination of creamy pasta, savory sausage, and a touch of elegance that this dish delivers. Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is the kind of recipe that wins hearts, whether you're serving it for a romantic date night or a cozy family dinner. With its velvety sauce, tender ditalini, and perfectly spiced sausage, it's no wonder this dish is called "Marry Me" pasta!

I discovered this recipe while experimenting with ways to bring restaurant-quality meals into my own kitchen. The result? A dish so flavorful and satisfying, you’ll want to make it over and over. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a keeper.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and ease. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. You can whip this up in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something special on the table.

Second, the bold flavors of the sausage and sun-dried tomatoes pair beautifully with the creamy sauce. The ditalini pasta holds the sauce perfectly in its small, tubular shape, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.

This recipe is also wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking to impress guests, this dish hits all the right notes. Plus, you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Finally, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day. The flavors deepen as they sit, making this a great option for meal prep or reheating.

Ready to create your new favorite pasta dish? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

• Ditalini Pasta: This small, tubular pasta is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. If you don’t have ditalini on hand, feel free to use elbow macaroni or mini shells as a substitute.
• Italian Sausage: Opt for mild or hot sausage, depending on your spice preference. The sausage adds richness and a savory kick that makes this dish unforgettable.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a tangy sweetness that balances the creaminess of the sauce. Look for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the luxurious sauce. If you’d like a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick or indulgent.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan is a must for that nutty, salty finish. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics create the flavor foundation, infusing the sauce with warmth and depth.

Finally, you’ll need basic pantry staples like olive oil, chicken broth, and a few seasonings (salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes). A large skillet and pot for boiling pasta are all the equipment required for this recipe.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creating this delicious pasta dish is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the steps:

1. Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the ditalini until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later.
2. Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Let it brown for 5-7 minutes, then remove it from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened, scraping up any browned bits from the sausage.
4. Create the sauce: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, followed by the chicken broth. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Next, add the heavy cream and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
5. Combine the ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, along with the ditalini pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated. Add parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
6. Finish and serve: Season the dish with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy cooks who want maximum flavor in minimal time.

Storage Options

This dish is just as good the next day, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the pasta cool to room temperature before sealing it.
• Freezer: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and label it with the date.

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas to customize your dish:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Different Pasta Shapes: While ditalini is perfect, you can use penne, rigatoni, or farfalle to switch things up.
• Spicier Sauce: Increase the red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to bring more heat to the dish.
• Extra Veggies: Add fresh spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers to boost the nutritional value and add color.
• Cheese Variations: Try mixing in pecorino romano or asiago for a slightly different cheese flavor profile.

Experimenting with ingredients is part of the fun, so feel free to make this recipe your own!

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