Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a rich, creamy pasta dish to bring everyone together around the dinner table, and this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta does just that. With its tender ditalini pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a luxuriously creamy sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to spark conversations and maybe even a marriage proposal!

I discovered this recipe while experimenting with ways to elevate a simple pasta dish into something truly unforgettable. It’s quick to make, endlessly comforting, and perfect for impressing your loved ones. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite weeknight indulgence.

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta. This dish is the perfect balance of comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

First, let’s talk about the sauce – it’s a velvety combination of cream, Parmesan cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning to make every bite irresistible. The sauce clings beautifully to the small, tubular ditalini pasta, ensuring every spoonful is full of flavor.

Savory and satisfying, the Italian sausage brings a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly stand out. Whether you opt for mild or spicy sausage, the result is a perfect contrast to the creamy sauce.

It’s also incredibly simple to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Perfect for busy weeknights or even a romantic dinner at home.

Lastly, this recipe is adaptable to your preferences. Whether you want to add extra veggies, switch up the pasta, or lighten the sauce, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe so special.

• Ditalini Pasta: This small, tube-shaped pasta is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Its bite-sized shape makes it ideal for hearty dishes like this one. If you can’t find ditalini, you can substitute small shells or macaroni.
• Italian Sausage: I recommend using ground Italian sausage for this recipe. It’s flavorful, easy to cook, and adds a savory, meaty element. Choose mild or spicy depending on your preference.
• Heavy Cream: This is the key to the luscious, creamy sauce. If you’re looking to cut calories, you can substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish to the dish. Be sure to use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics form the base of the sauce, infusing it with depth and a hint of sweetness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but highly recommended for a touch of heat that balances the creaminess beautifully.
• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped basil at the end adds a burst of freshness and a lovely visual contrast.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Making this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your new favorite pasta dinner.

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Brown the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
5. Combine and Season: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well. Add the cooked ditalini pasta, stirring to coat every piece in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this pasta stores beautifully.

• Refrigerator: Place the pasta in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the sauce may separate slightly when reheated, but a splash of cream or milk can help restore its consistency.

Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce. Stir gently until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can make it your own with a few simple tweaks.

• Protein Swap: Not a fan of sausage? Try using diced chicken, shrimp, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.
• Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap some of the cream for chicken broth to reduce the richness.
• Pasta Alternatives: Experiment with different shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for a fun twist.
• Extra Herbs: Add fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano for an herby flavor boost.

This dish is as forgiving as it is delicious – don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own.

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