Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect dish: Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta. This recipe is a true gem in my kitchen, combining creamy goodness with delightful flavors that make every bite feel like a hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed family gathering, this pasta dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

What makes this recipe so special is its balance of comfort and convenience. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to any tastes or dietary needs, making it a go-to for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for those nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this creamy pasta, making it ideal for picky eaters or family gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your favorite flavors.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich creaminess combined with savory sausage creates a dish that feels like home.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This pasta can be prepped ahead of time, making dinner stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! Each one plays an important role in creating that creamy texture and rich flavor we all crave.

For the Pasta

• 8 oz ditalini pasta
• 1 tbsp avocado oil

For the Sauce

• 1 lb mild Italian ground sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños!
• Use different cheese: Try substituting Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by cooking the ditalini in salted water until it’s al dente. This step is crucial as it ensures the pasta holds its shape when mixed with the sauce. Once done, drain it and set aside!

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. This adds depth to our sauce and infuses wonderful flavors into every bite.

Step 3: Sauté Onion & Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and sauté until softened—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant; this step brings out all that sweet aroma we love!

Step 4: Add Tomato Paste

Now mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until deepened in color. This enhances the overall flavor profile of our dish with its rich tomato goodness.

Step 5: Deglaze & Simmer

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth while scraping up those tasty brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes; this helps incorporate all those delicious flavors together.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Lower your heat and stir in both heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until everything is smooth and melted together. This is where we get that luxurious creamy texture!

Step 7: Season & Combine

Season your sauce with kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Finally, add in your cooked ditalini pasta! Heat everything together for another minute or two until every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs if you like and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top. Serve hot, and watch everyone swoon over their plates!

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and happiness! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Making this dish is a joy, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. The freshness brings out the best in each ingredient, elevating the overall taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you love a kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper directly into the sauce for an extra layer of heat.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your ditalini pasta al dente ensures it retains a nice bite even after being mixed with the sauce. This texture contrast makes each bite more enjoyable.
• Don’t Rush the Cream: When adding cream to your sauce, keep the heat low and stir continuously. This gentle approach helps prevent the cream from curdling and ensures a velvety smooth sauce.
• Customize Your Protein: If ground sausage isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. These leaner options can provide different flavors while keeping the dish deliciously creamy.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Presenting your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta beautifully can make dinner feel extra special. Here are some ideas on how to showcase this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Extra Parmesan: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan not only looks beautiful but also enhances the cheesy goodness of the pasta.
• Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest can brighten up the dish and add a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s comforting and always a crowd-pleaser!
• Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta. The acidity from the dressing will complement the creaminess beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add a healthy touch while their caramelized flavors provide a lovely contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Quick and easy steamed broccoli not only adds color but also provides crunch and nutrients, making your meal feel more complete.

Now that you know how to make this creamy delight even more special, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste fantastic, but it also stores well, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, consider portioning into individual servings.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re in the right place!

What variations can I try for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?

You can easily modify this recipe by using turkey or chicken sausage instead of mild Italian ground sausage. You might also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition!

Can I make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

How do I ensure my pasta is perfectly cooked?

To achieve al dente pasta, cook it according to the package instructions but start checking for doneness a minute or two earlier. It should be firm to the bite but not hard.

What can I serve with Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comfort and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dish has something special to offer everyone. Enjoy every creamy bite and feel free to share your thoughts after trying it! Happy cooking!