Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Published:

by Emilia

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy, rich flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines savory Italian sausage with a luscious cream sauce over ditalini pasta. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will make your loved ones ask for seconds!

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!
PIN THIS!
PIN THIS!
Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, garlic, and cream creates a rich taste that elevates any meal.
  • Versatile: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, it suits various occasions and palates.
  • Comforting Texture: The creamy sauce clings to the ditalini pasta, creating a satisfying bite every time.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with readily available ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up without a trip to the store.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious pasta dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

  • Nonstick sauté pan: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to cook the sausage evenly.
  • Large pot: Essential for boiling the ditalini pasta without overcrowding.
  • Colander: Drains excess water from the pasta efficiently.
  • Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your 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

Optional Garnish:

  • Red pepper flakes

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

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

Step 3: Caramelize the Tomato Paste

  1. Stir in tomato paste and 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 and let it reduce by half.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream until well combined.

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 the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

  1. If too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen without diluting flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired, then serve warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

With Fresh Herbs

  • Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of color and fresh flavor.
  • Oregano: Sprinkle dried oregano on top for an extra layer of Italian zest.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

  • Classic Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crunchy garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

Paired with a Salad

  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta perfectly.
  • Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.

Topped with Red Pepper Flakes

  • For a Spicy Kick: Garnish your dish with red pepper flakes to satisfy those who enjoy some heat.

With Wine

  • White Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the dish.
  • Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine can also complement the flavors of the sausage.
Creamy

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!
PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

To make sure your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Use Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh, high-quality Italian sausage and cream for the best flavor.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your ditalini pasta is cooked al dente as it will absorb some sauce while resting.
  • Don’t Skip Caramelizing Tomato Paste: This step enhances the depth of flavor in your sauce, making it rich and savory.
  • Adjust Sauce Consistency Wisely: Always have extra chicken broth on hand to adjust the sauce without losing taste.
  • Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes helps develop flavors further.
  • Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness and provides a healthy balance.
  2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
  3. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette creates a fresh contrast to creamy pasta.
  4. Antipasto Platter: Include cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies for variety.
  5. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and garlic, this appetizer adds brightness to your meal.
  6. Risotto Balls (Arancini): Crispy risotto balls offer texture and richness that pairs well with pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls and tips to avoid them.

  • Using Overcooked Pasta: Ensure your ditalini pasta is cooked al dente. Overcooking can result in mushy pasta that won’t hold up in the creamy sauce.
  • Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning your dish. A pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper elevate the flavors significantly.
  • Not Deglazing Properly: Make sure to deglaze your pan thoroughly with chicken broth. This step adds depth to the sauce by incorporating browned bits from the sausage.
  • Adding Cheese Too Early: Wait until the sauce is ready before adding Parmesan cheese. Adding it too soon can cause it to clump instead of melting smoothly.
  • Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t forget that a splash of chicken broth can help adjust it without sacrificing flavor.
  • Forgetting Optional Ingredients: Consider garnishing with red pepper flakes for extra flavor. These small additions can make a big difference in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta in an airtight container.
  • The dish stays fresh for 3-4 days when kept refrigerated.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

  • You can freeze this pasta dish for up to 2 months.
  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible for optimal freshness.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed evenly.
  • Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth and gently reheat while stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with spicy sausage or turkey sausage for different flavor profiles.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the amount of cheese.

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

This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How do I prevent my sauce from separating?

Make sure you stir continuously while adding cream and cheese on low heat. High heat can cause separation.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the nutrition and flavor profile of your dish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful blend of comfort and sophistication that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its rich flavors make it irresistible, while its versatility allows for various ingredient swaps to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; you might discover new favorite variations along the way!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Emilia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a luscious, flavorful dish that brings the comforts of home cooking to your dinner table. This recipe features tender ditalini pasta enveloped in a rich cream sauce, expertly combined with savory Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and a hint of tomato paste.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces ditalini pasta
  • 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage
  • ½ cup sweet onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Avocado oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • Chicken broth
  • Tomato paste

Instructions

  1. Cook ditalini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and toss with avocado oil.
  2. In a nonstick pan, heat avocado oil and sauté Italian sausage until browned.
  3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
  4. Mix in tomato paste and season with salt and pepper; caramelize for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Deglaze with chicken broth; reduce by half.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  7. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce; mix well to coat.
  8. Adjust thickness with chicken broth if necessary before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 482
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 635mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Share to...