Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. This pasta dish shines with its blend of mild Italian sausage, ditalini pasta, and a luscious cream sauce. Whether you’re cooking for date night or a busy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sausage, garlic, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: This creamy pasta is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors deepen when stored overnight, making your leftovers just as good as the first serving.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta efficiently, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks properly.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning sausage and sautéing vegetables to enhance flavor.
• Colander: Makes draining pasta quick and convenient without mess.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Dish

• 8 oz ditalini pasta
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 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)

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook the ditalini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat avocado oil. Add the mild Italian ground sausage, cooking until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 3: Sauté Onion & Garlic

Add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomato Paste

Mix in the tomato paste. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes until its color deepens.

Step 5: Deglaze & Simmer

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and melted together.

Step 7: Season & Combine

Add kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Gently stir in the cooked pasta until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Heat for an additional 1–2 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for an unforgettable meal experience!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce and complements the flavors of the pasta beautifully.

Add Grated Cheese

• Top each serving with extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving to enhance the dish’s aroma and visual appeal.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, make great side dishes that add color and nutrients to your plate.

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How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

To achieve the best version of Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.

• Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for richer flavor. Freshly ground sausage often enhances the taste of the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preferences. This ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides more aromatic depth than pre-minced options. It significantly boosts flavor!
• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer longer if you have time; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook ditalini until just al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and croutons adds crunch and complements the creamy texture of the pasta.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus offers a savory flavor profile that pairs well with creamy pasta.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers provide a refreshing bite before or alongside your main course.
5. Bruschetta: Topped toasted bread slices with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil create a fresh appetizer that awakens the palate.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles seasoned with olive oil as a light side dish.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs add an elegant touch to your meal.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory pasta flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta types work well in creamy dishes. Stick with ditalini or similar shapes for the best results.
• Overcooking the sausage: Cooking sausage too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice brown color without drying it out.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Don’t skip scraping up the brown bits after browning the sausage. This adds depth to your sauce.
• Not letting it thicken enough: If your sauce is too runny, let it simmer longer to reach a creamy consistency before adding pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Temperature: Ensure your fridge is set below 40°F (4°C).

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, you can substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option while still maintaining great flavor.

How can I customize this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Just swap out the ditalini pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead but consider storing the pasta separately from the sauce to prevent sogginess.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions—so give it a try!