When the dinner hour creeps up and I find myself standing in front of the pantry, the familiar scent of sautéing garlic and savory sausage fills the air, transporting me to culinary bliss. I can hardly believe that this delicious meal, my Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, comes together in just 35 minutes. It’s like a delightful nod to the comfort food of our childhood but with a grown-up twist that makes it feel special enough for any night of the week.
Imagine twirling tender ditalini pasta coated in a luxurious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to each bite. What makes this dish even better is its sheer versatility—it’s a canvas for creativity, allowing you to mix in fresh veggies or swap ingredients with ease to suit your cravings. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick meal after a long day, this pasta recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Why is Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta a must-try?
Effortless Cooking: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The savory sausage and rich cream create a sauce that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Customizable Delight: Easily tailor the recipe with your favorite veggies or swap proteins for endless variations.
Kid-Friendly: Its creamy goodness and familiar pasta shape are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Perfect for Leftovers: Reheat beautifully, just add a splash of broth to keep the creaminess intact.
Experience a comforting meal that’s not just quick but loaded with flavor!
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious, creamy pasta dish:
For the Pasta
- Ditalini Pasta – A small tube-shaped pasta that holds the sauce well; you can substitute with penne or macaroni for a twist.
For the Cooking
- Avocado Oil – Used for sautéing with a high smoke point; olive oil is a great alternative if needed.
- Sweet Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow onion can replace it in a pinch.
- Garlic – Brings aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred for the best taste.
For the Filling
- Mild Italian Ground Sausage – Provides rich flavor and protein; for a lighter option, try turkey or plant-based sausage.
For the Saucing
- Tomato Paste – Enhances flavor with a touch of sweetness; feel free to use tomato sauce if you prefer a different texture.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce; half-and-half can be used, but it may change the texture.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth – For deglazing and creating the sauce; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian dish.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor; grated fresh parmesan is best, but nutritional yeast is a good vegan substitute.
For Seasoning
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional garnish for a little heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
Now, you have everything you need to whip up this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta that is sure to charm your loved ones!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with avocado oil to prevent sticking; set aside.
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Brown the Sausage: In a sauté pan, heat a splash of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the mild Italian ground sausage, cooking until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add diced sweet onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
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Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to caramelize for 2-3 minutes, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in low sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer until the liquid reduces by half, about 3-5 minutes.
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Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and add heavy cream while stirring until well combined. Mix in grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. Serve warm and garnish with red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired.
Optional: For added freshness, toss in some spinach just before serving for a pop of color and nutrition!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
To elevate your dinner experience, let’s explore some delightful side dishes and accompaniments that will perfectly enhance the creamy goodness of this pasta.
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Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, its crispy texture and buttery garlic flavor will complement the pasta’s richness beautifully. It’s perfect for soaking up every bit of that velvety sauce!
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Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine and tangy dressing add a refreshing contrast, balancing the creamy pasta with bright flavors and textures. This salad’s crispness cuts through the indulgence without overwhelming the palate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini brings color and nutrition, while roasting enhances their natural sweetness. This option adds lovely depth and a pop of flavor alongside the rich dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green broccoli not only adds a healthy touch but also brings a satisfying crunch. Toss with a squeeze of lemon post-steaming for an extra zing that harmonizes wonderfully with the creaminess.
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Red Wine: A glass of light to medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully, enhancing the dish’s savory notes and adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse will offer a luxurious end to your dinner. Its smooth, airy texture contrasts nicely with the depth of the pasta, leaving everyone with a sweet note to remember.
These delicious pairings will not only complement your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta wonderfully but create a meal that’s truly unforgettable!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the ditalini pasta and brown the sausage up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked pasta in an airtight container tossed with a dash of avocado oil to prevent sticking, and refrigerate the browned sausage separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the sausage in a skillet, add the sautéed onion and garlic, followed by the prepped tomato paste, broth, cream, and parmesan. Toss in the cooked pasta to heat through, and you’ll have a delicious, effortless dinner that tastes just as amazing as when freshly made!
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore the exciting possibilities of this creamy pasta dish, making it uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute ditalini with gluten-free pasta such as brown rice or quinoa pasta for a delicious alternative.
- Vegetable-Loaded: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a nutritious boost that enhances both flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in extra red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to spice things up and awaken your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for a vibrant flavor enhancement and beautiful presentation.
- Creamy Vegan: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast in place of heavy cream and parmesan for a luscious, plant-based version.
- Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile that adds melty goodness.
- Protein Options: Swap the Italian sausage with crumbled feta or white beans for a delightful and protein-rich alternative.
- Savory Mushrooms: Sauteé a mix of mushrooms along with the aromatics for an earthy depth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a skillet over low heat, adding a little chicken broth to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
- Make-Ahead: If preparing for meal prep, assemble the dish without the cream and freeze; when ready to enjoy, add cream before reheating to ensure freshness.
Expert Tips for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
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Pasta Perfection: Ensure your ditalini pasta is cooked al dente; this helps it hold up in the creamy sauce rather than becoming mushy.
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Savory Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap out the mild Italian ground sausage for turkey or plant-based sausage effortlessly in your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta.
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Cheese Choice: For the best flavor, always use freshly grated parmesan cheese; pre-grated options lack the creaminess and depth this dish needs.
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Avoiding Thickness: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of low sodium chicken broth to the pan so the sauce remains luxuriously creamy instead of becoming too thick.
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Veggie Boost: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider tossing in fresh spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful twist in your meal.
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
Ditalini pasta is perfect for this dish as its small tube shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully. However, if you can’t find ditalini, feel free to swap it out for penne, macaroni, or bowtie pasta—each will work just as well!
How can I store leftovers of Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of low sodium chicken broth to maintain that luscious creaminess in your sauce!
Can I freeze Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth to keep it smooth and creamy.
What can I add if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick after cooking or reheating, don’t worry! Simply add a small splash of chicken broth or even a bit of water, stirring it in over low heat until the desired consistency is reached. This keeps everything silky, just like it should be!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this recipe. Swap the sausage for turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Always use gluten-free pasta if gluten intolerance is a concern, and check your cheese (like parmesan) for any additives if dairy allergies are present.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
No problem! If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that using milk may alter the thickness and creaminess of your sauce slightly, but it will still be delicious. If you want a creamy texture, consider adding a little corn starch mixed with water to thicken it up!
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Your New Family Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with avocado oil to prevent sticking; set aside.
- In a sauté pan, heat a splash of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the mild Italian ground sausage, cooking until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced sweet onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to caramelize for 2-3 minutes, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Pour in low sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer until the liquid reduces by half, about 3-5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream while stirring until well combined. Mix in grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. Serve warm and garnish with red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired.