Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of creamy sauce, savory Italian sausage, and perfectly cooked ditalini pasta creates a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The blend of Italian sausage and creamy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Ingredient Use: You can customize the recipe with different types of sausage or add veggies for extra nutrition.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it garnished with red pepper flakes and parsley, and it looks as good as it tastes!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking this delicious pasta, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick sauté pan: Prevents sticking while cooking the sausage and allows for easy cleanup.
• Colander: Essential for draining the ditalini pasta efficiently after cooking.
• Large pot: Provides ample space for boiling water and cooking 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 (Optional)

• Red pepper flakes

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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Make the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, seasoning generously with kosher salt.
2. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta using a colander, drizzle with a little avocado oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

1. Heat a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add avocado oil; once hot, add mild Italian ground sausage.
3. Sauté until golden brown, then add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 3: Caramelize the Tomato Paste

1. Stir in tomato paste; let it caramelize for 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor.
2. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce

1. Deglaze the pan by adding low-sodium chicken broth; stir until reduced by half.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low; stir in heavy cream until well mixed.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Pasta

1. Add grated Parmesan cheese; stir until melted into the sauce.
2. Toss in cooked pasta; stir until well-coated in sauce.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen without losing flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired; serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Serving Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile in how you can present it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of freshness and complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley can provide a pop of color and a mild flavor that balances the richness.

Add a Crunchy Topping

• Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs can add a delightful crunch on top, giving texture to each bite.
• Crushed Nuts: A handful of crushed walnuts or pine nuts can introduce a nutty flavor while enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. It’s always a favorite!
• Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks can be a great addition for dipping into the creamy goodness.

Accompany with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crispness and tang that pairs well with the pasta’s creaminess.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can lighten the meal while adding freshness.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Perfecting Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Bold flavors: Use high-quality Italian sausage for richer taste that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Cream consistency: Adjust the heavy cream amount based on your preference for creaminess; start with less and add more as needed.
• Season thoroughly: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; proper seasoning elevates the dish significantly.
• Al dente pasta: Cook the ditalini just until al dente for a perfect texture that holds up in the sauce.
• Garnish wisely: Experiment with garnishes like fresh herbs or red pepper flakes to add visual appeal and additional flavors.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side options that will pair beautifully.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables tossed in garlic and olive oil make for a vibrant, healthy side.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring refreshing flavors.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color without overpowering the main dish.
4. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables is perfect for sharing.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil offers a tasty starter.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles lightly sautéed can be served alongside or under the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can sometimes be tricky, especially with pasta dishes. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of when making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta.

• Not salting the pasta water: This is crucial for flavor. Always season your boiling water generously with kosher salt before adding the pasta.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini should be al dente for the best texture. Follow package instructions and taste test as it cooks.
• Skipping the caramelization step: Caramelizing the tomato paste enhances its flavor. Take the time to let it cook properly for a richer sauce.
• Adding cheese too early: Wait until after adding the cream to stir in the Parmesan. This ensures a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps.
• Not adjusting sauce consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, don’t forget to add a splash of chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easier tracking.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until heated throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use spicy Italian sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?

This pasta pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for added crunch and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the ditalini pasta separately, then combine them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is an irresistible dish that balances rich flavors with comforting textures. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress!

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