Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal that’s both simple and delicious. Combining rich flavors from Italian sausage with a creamy sauce, this dish will win over every palate at your table. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this pasta recipe stands out for its convenience and satisfying taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of mild Italian sausage, garlic, and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients like sausage types or cheese to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Comfort Food Appeal: This dish is a warm, comforting meal that feels fancy without the fuss.
• Great for Leftovers: The creamy sauce tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick sauté pan: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, especially useful when browning sausage.
• Colander: Essential for draining pasta properly while keeping it al dente.
• Large pot: Necessary for boiling water to cook the ditalini pasta evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your nonstick cookware.

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 generously with kosher salt.
1. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain using a colander and drizzle with avocado oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

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

Step 3: Caramelize the Tomato Paste

Stir in tomato paste and let caramelize for about 2-3 minutes.
1. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce

Add low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
1. Stir well and let broth reduce by half.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low; stir in heavy cream until well mixed.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Pasta

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

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If sauce thickens too much:
1. Add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Serving Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is about enhancing the dish while keeping it comforting and delightful. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will make this pasta truly shine.

Family Style

• Large Serving Bowl: Present the pasta in a large bowl to encourage sharing among family and friends.
• Paired with Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a colorful, nutritious complement.

Individual Plates

• Garnished Bowls: Serve in individual bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper for an elegant touch.
• With Crusty Bread: Include slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce.

Special Occasions

• Romantic Dinner: Plate the dish neatly and add a sprig of basil or parsley for a romantic dinner setup.
• Buffet Style: For gatherings, set up a buffet station where guests can serve themselves, adding their preferred garnishes.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Perfecting Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use high-quality Italian sausage for a more robust flavor in your pasta.
• Cream Consistency Control: Adjust the amount of cream based on your preference for richness; less cream gives a lighter sauce.
• Fresh Herbs Addition: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness and color.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for unique flavor profiles.
• Pasta Cooking Time: Ensure you cook the ditalini pasta al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Leftover Magic: Transform leftovers into a baked dish by topping with cheese and broiling until bubbly.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that perfectly complements the creamy pasta and allows you to savor every bit of sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil brings depth and flavor to your meal.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction provide a refreshing side option.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, artichokes, and cheeses creates an appealing appetizer before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Overcooking the ditalini can make it mushy. Always cook it al dente according to package instructions for the best texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can dull flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping the Caramelization Step: Failing to caramelize the tomato paste can lead to a flat taste. Take the time to let it cook for a few minutes for deeper flavor.
• Not Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, it can become unappetizing. Keep chicken broth nearby to adjust the thickness as you cook or reheat.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor quality sausage or cream can affect the overall taste. Use good-quality ingredients for a richer and more flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure the pasta has cooled completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Label each container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta special?

This dish combines rich flavors from Italian sausage and creamy sauce, making it comforting yet elegant enough for any dinner table.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is perfect for this recipe, feel free to substitute with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells if desired.

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

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition or swap out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This pasta dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Just follow storage instructions above!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative along with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it with different proteins or veggies, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and become a weeknight favorite!

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