Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Published:

by Jessica

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this pasta is bound to impress. The creamy sauce, rich with Italian sausage and ditalini pasta, makes it a comforting yet elevated meal. With its blend of flavors and easy preparation, it’s destined to become a favorite in your weekly rotation!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Packed: The combination of Italian sausage, garlic, and cream creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
  • Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, potluck gatherings, or even date nights at home.
  • Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild flavors, picky eaters won’t be able to resist!
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers are just as delicious and can be easily reheated.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather a few essential tools to make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Nonstick sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

  • Nonstick sauté pan: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after cooking.
  • Colander: Essential for draining pasta efficiently without losing any noodles.
  • Large pot: Necessary to boil water for cooking the ditalini pasta evenly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 8 ounces ditalini pasta, cooked al dente
  • 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil

For the Sauce

  • 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage
  • ½ cup sweet onion, diced small
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1–1.5 tablespoons tomato paste
  • Pinch of kosher salt, to taste
  • Few turns of cracked black pepper, to taste
  • ½–¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
  • ¾–1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For Garnish

  • Red pepper flakes
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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Make the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season it generously with kosher salt. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta using a colander and drizzle with a little avocado oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

Heat a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil. Once hot, add the mild Italian ground sausage and sauté until golden brown. Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 3: Caramelize the Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to caramelize for 2-3 minutes. This step enhances its flavor significantly. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and a few turns of cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce

Deglaze the pan by adding low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well and let it reduce by half. Reduce heat to medium-low, then stir in heavy cream until well mixed into a creamy base.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Pasta

Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce stirring until melted completely. Toss in your cooked ditalini pasta ensuring every piece is well coated in that delicious sauce.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If you find that your sauce has thickened too much during cooking or reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up without compromising on flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your dish with red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick! Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this delightful creamy pasta dish!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Serving Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will complement this rich and flavorful dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

  • Caesar Salad – A classic that balances the creamy pasta with crisp romaine and tangy dressing.
  • Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a refreshing touch to your meal.

Add Garlic Bread

  • Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and parsley make for the perfect side.
  • Toasted Baguette Slices – Crunchy slices topped with garlic butter enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Top with Extra Garnish

  • Fresh Basil – Chopped fresh basil brightens the dish and adds a hint of freshness.
  • Shaved Parmesan – Extra cheese on top enhances the creaminess and richness of the pasta.

Serve with Wine

  • White Wine – A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the hearty flavors beautifully.
  • Red Wine – A light-bodied Chianti pairs well, enhancing the Italian sausage notes in the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Perfecting your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for optimal results.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and sweet onions provide better flavor than dried or pre-packaged options.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente – Make sure not to overcook your ditalini pasta; it should have a slight bite for texture.
  • Adjust Sauce Consistency – If your sauce thickens too much, add chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Let it Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.
  • Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheeses like Pecorino Romano for unique flavor variations.
  • Garnish Generously – Don’t skimp on garnishes like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs to enhance presentation and taste.
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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

  1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli – The roasted florets add a savory crunch that complements the creamy pasta.
  2. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly seasoned green beans provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
  3. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze offers a zesty finish to your meal.
  4. Italian Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and nuts creates a delightful appetizer spread.
  5. Creamy Mushroom Risotto – For an indulgent twist, serve alongside creamy risotto that mirrors the pasta’s richness.
  6. Roasted Vegetable Medley – Seasonal vegetables roasted perfectly add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

  • Skipping the Salt: Not salting your pasta water can lead to bland pasta. Always season your boiling water generously so the pasta absorbs flavor while cooking.
  • Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long can result in mushy texture. Aim for al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it.
  • Not Deglazing Properly: Failing to deglaze the pan can leave behind flavorful bits that add depth to your sauce. Always add broth and scrape the bottom of the pan after cooking sausage.
  • Rushing the Sauce: If you don’t allow time for the tomato paste to caramelize, you miss out on enhanced flavors. Take your time with this step for a richer taste.
  • Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping optional garnishes like red pepper flakes can make your dish less exciting. A little heat can elevate the overall flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

  • Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer pasta to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
  • Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat and stir gently until heated through.
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage if you prefer a lighter option.

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

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

What is ditalini pasta?

Ditalini is a small, tube-shaped pasta that works wonderfully with creamy sauces and is perfect for this recipe.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I adjust the spiciness?

You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes used as a garnish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is not just delicious but also versatile. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily customized based on your preferences. Whether you’re adding veggies or switching up proteins, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with it!

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Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta


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  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, a quick and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This delightful pasta features al dente ditalini enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, enhanced by savory Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and a hint of sweetness from onions. In just 35 minutes, you can create a meal that will impress your family and friends alike. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is versatile and sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces ditalini pasta
  • 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage
  • ½ cup sweet onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook ditalini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and toss with avocado oil.
  2. In a nonstick sauté pan, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, season with salt and pepper, then deglaze the pan with chicken broth.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low; mix in heavy cream until smooth.
  5. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, followed by the cooked pasta; stir to coat.
  6. Adjust sauce consistency with additional broth if necessary and garnish with red pepper flakes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 47g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg

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