Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, then this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is just the recipe for you! This dish brings together the richness of creamy sauce and the comforting flavor of sausage, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s one of those meals that makes everyone gather around the table, smiling and anticipating a delicious feast. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your menu!

This recipe is not only tasty but also super easy to whip up. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This pasta dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and savory flavors, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Versatile Dish: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a small gathering with friends, this pasta fits perfectly on any table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and heat it up when you’re ready to serve—easy peasy!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage and creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone raving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish! You probably have some of these staples in your pantry already. Here’s what you need:

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces ditalini pasta (cooked al dente)

For the Sauce

• 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage
• ½ cup sweet onion (diced small)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-1.5 tablespoons tomato paste
• Pinch kosher salt (to taste)
• Few turns cracked black pepper (to taste)
• ½ – ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
• ¾ – 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• Red pepper flakes (optional garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without losing flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicier: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños to kick things up a notch.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit cheese for a delicious dairy-free version.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your ditalini pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and doesn’t turn mushy in the sauce. Drain and set aside while we whip up that creamy goodness!

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the avocado oil. Once it’s hot, throw in the mild Italian ground sausage. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. This step is key because browning adds depth to the flavor of your dish.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Next, stir in your diced sweet onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent—this takes about 3-4 minutes. The sweetness from the onions combined with garlic creates an aromatic base that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step 4: Build Your Sauce

Mix in the tomato paste along with salt and pepper to taste. Then pour in low-sodium chicken broth followed by heavy cream. Stir everything together until well combined. Let this simmer gently so all those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Finally, sprinkle in grated parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and creamy. If you find your sauce too thick, feel free to adjust with extra broth or cream until it’s just right!

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Now gently fold in your cooked ditalini pasta into the sauce. Make sure every piece is coated evenly—this is where all that rich flavor comes together!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Plate up your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta and garnish with red pepper flakes if desired. Invite everyone to dig in while it’s warm and enjoy every bite of comfort!

And there you go! You’ve made a delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Cooking is all about finding joy in the process, and these tips will help you create a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients like onions and garlic can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish, making it more aromatic and vibrant.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the ditalini pasta just until it’s al dente ensures it maintains a slight bite, which adds texture to your creamy sauce and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust creaminess to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream based on your preference. For a lighter version, you can reduce the cream slightly or replace part of it with low-fat milk.
• Experiment with spices: Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the flavor profile of the dish. A little experimentation can make this recipe uniquely yours!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the sauce and melds all those lovely flavors together.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Serving this pasta dish is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts with the creamy sauce.
• Grated parmesan: A sprinkle of additional grated parmesan on top enhances the cheesy goodness and provides an inviting aroma.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes will not only add visual appeal but also a delightful kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, garlic bread is a classic side that complements creamy pasta beautifully.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and balances the richness of the main dish, making it feel well-rounded.
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings refreshing flavors and textures that contrast nicely with the creamy pasta, providing a satisfying meal experience.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color, nutrition, and depth of flavor to your dinner plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to enjoy your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will last for up to 3 days, but for the best taste, try to consume it within 2 days.

Freezing

• If you’d like to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Label the container with the date and use it within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
• Microwave reheating is also an option; just cover the dish and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious creamy pasta dish!

Can I use other types of pasta for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini gives a lovely bite-sized texture, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply switch out the ditalini pasta for a gluten-free alternative. There are plenty of options available that work wonderfully!

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Feel free to toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You could also experiment with different spices or cheese varieties!

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a meatless version, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. Increase the amount of vegetables and consider adding mushrooms for a hearty bite.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta! It brings together comforting flavors and textures that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Enjoy every scrumptious bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on it!