There’s something truly heartwarming about the sound of pasta bubbling away on the stove, filling the kitchen with the promise of a comforting meal. This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta isn’t just another dish—it’s an experience that brings loved ones together at the dinner table. On those busy weeknights when time seems to slip away, this recipe offers a delightful escape with its rich, creamy sauce and savory Italian sausage that satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
The best part? It’s remarkably adaptable! Feel free to throw in whatever fresh veggies you have on hand, whether it’s vibrant spinach or sweet peas. Each forkful is a celebration of flavors that’s just as perfect for family gatherings as it is for cozy nights in. So grab your apron and let’s make a meal that might just have someone saying, “Marry me!”
Why Will You Love Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
Comforting Warmth: This dish brings the comforting essence of home-cooked goodness straight to your table.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich, velvety sauce envelops each piece of pasta, creating a luxurious texture that is simply irresistible.
Family Favorite: Packed with savory Italian sausage, it’s guaranteed to please even the fussiest eaters in your household.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when time is limited.
Customizable Delight: Easily incorporate your favorite vegetables for added flavor and nutrition—this recipe truly accommodates every palate!
Chef’s Tip: For a twist, try adding fresh herbs or spices to accentuate the flavors further—your culinary creativity can shine!
Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Ditalini Pasta – Provides the base of the dish; substitute with penne or bowtie for variety.
For the Sauce
- Avocado Oil – Perfect for sautéing due to its high smoke point; maintains flavor integrity when cooking.
- Mild Italian Ground Sausage – Adds a rich, savory flavor; can be substituted with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Sweet Onion – Enhances the dish’s sweetness; yellow or red onions are great alternatives too.
- Garlic – Delivers aromatic depth; minced garlic releases the best flavor.
- Tomato Paste – Provides umami; caramelizing it deeply enriches the sauce’s flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing overall taste; adjust according to preference.
- Cracked Black Pepper – Adds a warm kick; tailor the amount to your heat tolerance.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Used for deglazing; vegetable broth makes a great vegetarian swap.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a decadent creamy sauce; half and half can be used for a lighter but different texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Offers a nutty, creamy finish; freshly grated is preferred for the best flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for spice; use based on personal heat preference.
For Serving
- Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Herbs like parsley or basil can elevate flavors and add brightness to the dish.
This Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is sure to become a family favorite, whether you’re serving it on a busy night or for a special weekend dinner!
How to Make Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
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Boil Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ditalini pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain it, drizzle with avocado oil, and set aside to keep it from sticking.
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Cook Sausage: In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add a splash of avocado oil. Once hot, add the ground sausage. Cook until it’s browned and crumbly, around 5-7 minutes. Mix in diced sweet onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to caramelize slightly. This step enhances the sauce’s rich flavor. Season with kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
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Deglaze and Create Sauce: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan. Reduce the broth by half, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully add the heavy cream, stirring until mixed. Fold in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
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Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. If desired, garnish with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
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Perfect Pasta: Cook the ditalini until al dente to ensure it retains a pleasant bite. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, which mishandles the sauce.
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Sautéing Technique: Brown the sausage well for maximum flavor. Skipping this step may result in a less savory dish; the caramelization is key!
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Creamy Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much while cooking, simply add a bit more chicken broth to achieve the desired creaminess without compromising taste.
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Flavorful Tomato Paste: Don’t rush the caramelization of the tomato paste—it deepens the sauce’s flavor profile and enhances the overall deliciousness of your Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta.
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Garnish for Freshness: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley over the finished dish for a bright, fresh finish that elevates flavors.
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Storage Tips: Leftovers are best stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days. When reheating, include a splash of broth to maintain creaminess!
Storage Tips for Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the pasta in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
Tips: For longer-lasting flavor, avoid freezing any components that may separate upon thawing, like cream.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. Simply follow the recipe steps up to combining the pasta and sauce, then cool the mixture completely before refrigerating. To keep the pasta from sticking, toss it with a touch of avocado oil before storing. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to achieve the desired consistency, and then mix in the cooked pasta for a quick and delicious meal that’s just as satisfying!
What to Serve with Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
Create a delightful dining experience by complementing this creamy, savory dish with delicious side offerings.
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Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for sopping up creamy sauce, enhancing each bite with warm, buttery goodness.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the pasta.
For a mix of textures and flavors, consider a bright salad topped with cucumber and cherry tomatoes. Their juiciness cuts through the creaminess of the pasta perfectly!
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add earthy flavors and vibrant colors to your plate.
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Antipasto Platter: Simple yet elegant, an assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses offers a variety to whet the appetite before the main course.
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Sautéed Spinach: Quickly cooked with garlic, sautéed spinach adds a lovely pop of green and nutritional value to complete the meal.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine pairs wonderfully, complementing the creamy sauce and enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet is a refreshing way to cleanse the palate after the indulgence of the pasta.
Each pairing amplifies the comforting essence of the Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, creating a meal that’s memorable and satisfying!
Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and create your own unique versions that will delight the taste buds.
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Veggie-Loaded: Add fresh spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrients. It enhances the dish’s texture while creating a delightful visual feast.
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Lean Protein: Swap out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that keeps the dish satisfying without compromising flavor. You won’t miss the richness!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil, parsley, or oregano just before serving for an aromatic lift. These herbs add brightness and an enticing aroma that beckons to be savored.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat, catering to those who love a bit of spice. It transforms the dish into a fiery delight!
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Creamy Alternatives: Use half and half or plain Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. This maintains creaminess but offers a tangy twist.
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Pasta Variety: Experiment with other short pasta types like macaroni or fusilli, lending a new texture and experience with every bite. Each variety brings something unique to the table.
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Roasted Garlic: Roast garlic cloves and blend them into the sauce for an added depth of flavor. This creates a beautifully rich backdrop that everyone will adore.
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Cheesy Bliss: Swap parmesan with a blend of mozzarella and provolone for an oozy texture that’s wonderfully melty. Who doesn’t love extra cheesy goodness?
Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta can I use for Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
You can use ditalini pasta for its perfect bite-size shape, but if you can’t find it, short pasta like penne or bowtie are great alternatives that will work just as well in this recipe.
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
Store your leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the pasta cool before placing it in the container for optimal flavor retention.
Can I freeze Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze this pasta for up to 3 months. Just ensure the dish is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help regain its creamy texture.
What should I do if the sauce thickens too much while cooking?
If you find that your sauce is becoming too thick, no need to worry! Gradually stir in more chicken broth, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the right creaminess makes all the difference to your Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
If you’re concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the sausage with turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Always double-check the labels on ingredients for allergens.
What vegetables can I add to the Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
You can customize your dish easily! Adding fresh veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers not only boosts the nutritional value but also enhances the flavors. Just toss them into the pan while sautéing the onions for a delicious and vibrant addition!
Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Your Family Will Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ditalini pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain it, drizzle with avocado oil, and set aside.
- Cook Sausage: In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add a splash of avocado oil. Once hot, add the ground sausage. Cook until browned and crumbly, around 5-7 minutes. Mix in diced sweet onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to caramelize slightly. Season with kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
- Deglaze and Create Sauce: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan. Reduce the broth by half, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully add the heavy cream, stirring until mixed. Fold in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. If desired, garnish with red pepper flakes before serving. Serve with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
