Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe

There’s something irresistible about a steaming bowl of creamy pasta that feels like a warm hug on a busy evening. This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta combines tender ditalini pasta, savory sausage, and a rich, velvety sauce that’s impossible to resist.

I first discovered this recipe during a frantic weeknight scramble to make something satisfying with what I had on hand. It was love at first bite, and my family affectionately calls it the "Marry Me Pasta" because it’s that good! Whether you're cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, this dish promises to impress. Let’s dive in!

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

Get ready to discover your new favorite comfort food! This pasta dish ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable meal.

First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. With just one skillet and one pot, you’ll have dinner on the table in under 40 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.

The combination of savory sausage and creamy sauce is utterly addictive. The way the ditalini pasta soaks up the rich flavors ensures every bite is perfection.

It's also wonderfully versatile. Use spicy Italian sausage for a kick or swap in chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can even add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.

Finally, this recipe is family-approved and budget-friendly. Using affordable pantry staples, it’s a dish that delivers on flavor without breaking the bank.

Ready to whip up this creamy masterpiece? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack big flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ditalini pasta: This short, tubular pasta is perfect for catching every drop of the creamy sauce. It’s fun, bite-sized, and a wonderful match for this dish.
• Italian sausage: Opt for hot or mild Italian sausage based on your preference. The sausage adds depth and a touch of spice to the sauce.
• Heavy cream: This is the star of the sauce, giving it that luxurious texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half.
• Chicken broth: Adds a subtle savory base to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cream.
• Garlic and onions: These aromatic ingredients lay the foundation for the sauce, infusing it with flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan thickens the sauce and adds a sharp, nutty finish.
• Seasonings: A blend of dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Special Equipment

You’ll need a large skillet to prepare the sauce and a pot for boiling the pasta. A fine grater for the Parmesan is also handy for achieving that melty texture.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creating this dish is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining – this will help adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed and sauté diced onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and pick up all the flavorful browned bits. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated. Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.

In about 35 minutes, you’ll have a comforting dish ready to enjoy!

Storage Options

Leftovers? This pasta stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, so it’s just as delicious reheated.
• Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this dish means you can tailor it to suit your taste and dietary needs.

• Protein Swap: Use chicken sausage, ground turkey, or even shrimp instead of Italian sausage.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a meatless version.
• Cheese Upgrade: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier twist.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the ditalini with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Experiment and make this recipe your own. The possibilities are endless!

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