Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

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by Nora

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe combines the richness of a creamy sauce with flavorful Italian sausage and ditalini pasta, making it a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious taste and comforting texture.

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy sauce creates a delectable flavor profile you’ll crave.
  • Versatile: Great as a main course or paired with a salad for a complete meal.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: Store any extras in the fridge for an easy lunch or dinner later in the week.
  • Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

  • Nonstick sauté pan: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after cooking.
  • Colander: Essential for draining the pasta without losing any pieces.
  • Large pot: Provides ample space to boil water for cooking pasta efficiently.

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

  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. Drizzle with avocado oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

  1. Heat your nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add avocado oil once hot.
  3. Sauté the mild Italian ground sausage until golden brown.
  4. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until 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 deepen its flavor.
  2. Season with kosher salt and cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce

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

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Pasta

  1. Add grated Parmesan cheese; stir until melted into sauce.
  2. Toss in cooked ditalini pasta; mix until well-coated in sauce.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

  1. If sauce thickens too much, add splashes of chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  1. If desired, garnish with red pepper flakes for added heat.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Serving your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Add Fresh Herbs

  • Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Pair with Garlic Bread

  • Homemade or Store-Bought: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce and add extra flavor.

Include a Side Salad

  • Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.

Top with Extra Cheese

  • Parmesan or Mozzarella: Grate extra cheese on top just before serving for an indulgent touch.

Serve in Individual Bowls

  • Personal Touch: Present the pasta in individual bowls for a more intimate dining experience.

Offer Crusty Rolls

  • Dinner Rolls: Crusty rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, making them a delightful addition.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Perfecting your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta ensures every bite is flavorful and enjoyable. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

  • Bold Flavor with Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning. Adding salt and pepper gradually can help you achieve the perfect flavor balance.
  • Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality Italian sausage and fresh herbs for a richer flavor profile.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook ditalini pasta until it’s al dente. This texture will hold up better when mixed with the sauce.
  • Cream Consistency Check: If the sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add more chicken broth to keep it creamy without losing flavor.
  • Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes not only adds heat but also enhances visual appeal.
  • Mind Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant.
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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

To complete your meal, consider serving some tasty side dishes alongside your creamy pasta. These options will complement the flavors beautifully.

  1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender, adding color and nutrition.
  3. Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter, perfect for dipping in any remaining sauce.
  4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing bite.
  5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil; a great appetizer option.
  6. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly salted green beans that provide crunch and freshness to balance the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can be easy, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

  • Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking ditalini pasta beyond al dente will make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and taste test for doneness.
  • Skipping the Seasoning – Neglecting to season your sauce with salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
  • Not Deglazing Properly – Failing to deglaze the pan after cooking sausage may result in burnt bits that affect the sauce’s taste. Use chicken broth to scrape up all the flavorful bits.
  • Adding Cheese Too Early – Adding Parmesan cheese too soon can cause it to clump. Make sure the sauce is off the heat or sufficiently cooled before stirring in the cheese.
  • Using Heavy Cream Directly from the Fridge – Cold cream can cause your sauce to separate. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding it.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

  • Freeze in a sturdy, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
  • Label containers with the date for reference.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

  • Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring often, until warmed throughout. Add a splash of broth if needed.
  • Stovetop – Warm on medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If necessary, add chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta special?

This dish combines rich flavors from Italian sausage and creamy sauce, creating a comforting meal that feels fancy yet easy enough for weeknight dinners.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini works great, you can substitute with any pasta shape like penne or fusilli based on your preference.

How do I customize Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?

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

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and butter as a substitute, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. With options for customization, this dish invites creativity while remaining quick and satisfying. Give it a try on your next busy night!

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

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Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta


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

Description

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with a velvety cream sauce, creating a comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This easy-to-make pasta recipe features ditalini pasta, which absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. In just about 35 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent dish that will impress family and friends alike. Whether served alone or paired with a fresh salad and garlic bread, this creamy pasta is sure to become a household favorite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces ditalini pasta
  • 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage
  • ½ cup sweet onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 11.5 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
  • ¾1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Avocado oil, kosher salt, cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the ditalini pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and toss with avocado oil.
  2. In a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to caramelize. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Deglaze with chicken broth and let it reduce by half before stirring in heavy cream.
  5. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted, followed by the cooked ditalini pasta until well coated.
  6. Adjust sauce consistency with more broth if needed, garnish with red pepper flakes, and serve warm.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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