Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy decadence of a pasta dish that combines bold flavors with comforting textures. This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a show-stopper, boasting tender pasta, savory sausage, and a rich, dreamy sauce that's impossible to resist.

I first discovered this recipe during a cozy night in with my family. What began as a simple pantry-meal experiment quickly turned into an all-time favorite. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone at the table declaring their love—hence the name, "Marry Me Pasta."

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for this indulgent pasta recipe. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and bound to become a weeknight favorite in no time.

First, the savory sausage and creamy sauce combination is a match made in heaven. The robust flavors of the sausage balance perfectly with the rich, cheesy sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and comforting.

Next, it’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With just 30 minutes of active cooking time, you can have this restaurant-worthy meal on your table without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you’re feeding a family, this dish is a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser. The use of ditalini pasta and a handful of pantry staples keeps the cost low while delivering maximum taste.

Lastly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you want to swap the sausage for chicken or add some extra veggies, it adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta lies in its simple, high-impact ingredients. Let’s break them down:

• Ditalini Pasta: These short, tube-shaped pasta pieces are ideal for catching every drop of that luscious sauce. Their size also makes them perfect for kids or those who prefer smaller bites.
• Sausage: Use your favorite Italian sausage—spicy, sweet, or mild. It’s the backbone of the dish, providing rich, savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, heavy cream gives it a silky, luxurious texture. For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less thick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the perfect salty, nutty flavor that takes the sauce to the next level.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet and tangy pop that cuts through the richness of the cream. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatic ingredients form the flavor base of the dish, adding depth and warmth.

You’ll also need a large skillet or sauté pan, and a medium pot to cook the pasta. A fine grater for the Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best texture.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Making this pasta dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps to create a masterpiece:

1. Cook the Ditalini Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ditalini according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Let it brown for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce
   Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
5. Combine Everything
   Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, along with the drained ditalini. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional grated Parmesan. Serve immediately and watch the smiles light up around the table!

Storage Options

This pasta dish is just as good the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it for the best results:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While the cream-based sauce doesn’t freeze perfectly, you can freeze the pasta for up to 1 month in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as the sauce may separate.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a canvas for customization. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Replace the sausage with shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or even a plant-based sausage alternative.
• Add Veggies: Sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or steamed broccoli make great additions.
• Make it Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary restrictions.
• Cheese It Up: Experiment with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a unique twist on the sauce.

The possibilities are endless—get creative and make this recipe your own signature dish!

Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a delicious meal, this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is sure to impress. It’s quick, comforting, and loaded with flavor—just what every home cook needs in their repertoire.

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