Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta to bring everyone to the dinner table. This dish combines perfectly cooked ditalini pasta, savory sausage, and a luscious creamy tomato sauce, all topped with Parmesan and fresh basil. It’s love at first bite—no wonder it’s called "Marry Me Pasta."

I first tried this recipe during a cozy dinner with friends, and it’s been a staple ever since. The simplicity of the ingredients and the luxurious flavor make it perfect for busy weeknights or romantic dinners. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delightful pasta dish. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.

First, the combination of creamy tomato sauce with flavorful Italian sausage creates a rich, restaurant-quality dish that comes together in under 40 minutes. It’s perfect for when you need something quick but still crave a little indulgence.

This recipe is also wonderfully versatile. Whether you want to spice it up with hot Italian sausage or tone it down with a mild version, it adapts beautifully to your preferences. Add some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a fun twist!

Plus, ditalini pasta is a star in this dish. Its tiny, tube-like shape ensures every bite is coated with that irresistible creamy sauce, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder (well, almost). Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after enjoying this fabulous meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each one adds something special to the dish.

Ditalini pasta is the perfect choice for this recipe. Its small size and tubular shape catch the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you don’t have ditalini, you can substitute small shells or macaroni.

Italian sausage is the star of the show. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, its savory flavor infuses the dish with a depth that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage works well too.

Crushed tomatoes and heavy cream form the base of the luxurious sauce. The tomatoes provide a tangy balance to the richness of the cream, creating a velvety texture that’s utterly addictive.

Fresh garlic and onion bring a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Minced garlic adds a bold, aromatic kick, while sautéed onions add a touch of sweetness.

Finally, don’t forget the finishing touches: Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. The Parmesan adds a nutty, salty note, while the basil brings a fresh, fragrant contrast to the rich sauce.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creating this irresistible dish is easier than you might think. Here’s how it all comes together.

Start by cooking the ditalini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining the rest. This starchy water will help loosen the sauce later if needed.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles as it browns. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, sauté diced onions in a bit of olive oil until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream to create that signature creamy texture. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Finish by sprinkling the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves. Serve hot and prepare to fall in love!

Storage Options

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is as good the next day as it is fresh off the stove. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making for an even more delicious meal.
• To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
• If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Swap the sausage: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced zucchini for an extra dose of nutrition.
• Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
• Experiment with cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Switch the pasta: While ditalini is ideal, any short pasta like penne or rigatoni works well.

No matter how you customize it, this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’re about to create a dish worth falling in love with!

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