Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty pasta dish, and this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a true showstopper. Packed with savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a luscious cream-based sauce, it’s a meal that promises to impress.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe while experimenting with easy yet indulgent weeknight meals. With its bold flavors and cozy vibe, it quickly became a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of why this dish deserves a spot in your dinner rotation.

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible pasta recipe. It’s not just a dish—it’s a dinnertime experience that hits all the right notes.

First, this recipe is a time-saver. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. No more slaving over the stove when you’re short on time.

Second, the combination of creamy sauce, flavorful sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta is a match made in heaven. Each bite is packed with rich, satisfying goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Budget-conscious cooks will love how affordable this recipe is. Using pantry staples like pasta and cream, along with a pack of Italian sausage, means you can serve up restaurant-quality flavors without breaking the bank.

Finally, this dish is endlessly adaptable. Whether you want to spice it up with hot Italian sausage or sneak in some veggies, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe shines because of its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

The star of the dish is ditalini pasta, a small, tube-shaped pasta that’s perfect for holding the creamy sauce in every bite. If you don’t have ditalini, you can substitute with other small pasta like macaroni or small shells.

Italian sausage brings a bold, savory flavor that complements the cream sauce beautifully. You can use sweet, mild, or spicy sausage depending on your preference. Don’t forget to remove the casings for easier cooking.

The sauce is made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and velvety texture. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the creaminess will be slightly reduced.

Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the dish. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

A handful of chopped fresh basil ties everything together with its bright, herbaceous notes. If you don’t have fresh basil, a sprinkle of dried basil works in a pinch.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like olive oil, minced garlic, and chicken broth to round out the flavors.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creating this delicious pasta dish is easier than you might think. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Start by cooking the ditalini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water, and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it browns. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until fully cooked and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly, before stirring in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Finish the dish by stirring in the chopped fresh basil and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.

Storage Options

This pasta dish is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture of the sauce.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in individual portions. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To reheat frozen pasta, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in a skillet over low heat with a bit of liquid to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative and make it your own.

For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Stir in cooked spinach, kale, or peas before serving. They’ll add color and a touch of freshness to the dish.

If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, swap the cream and Parmesan for coconut cream and nutritional yeast. While the flavor will be different, it’s a great way to make the dish dairy-free.

You can also experiment with different pasta shapes, such as penne, rigatoni, or even orzo, depending on what you have on hand.

No sun-dried tomatoes? Substitute them with cherry tomatoes sautéed until tender and slightly caramelized.

With this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta recipe, you have all the tools to create a meal that’s both indulgent and effortless. Give it a try—you just might fall in love with your new favorite pasta dish!

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