Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a divine medley of flavors, combining the richness of cream, the savory goodness of sausage, and the perfect al dente pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, offering a unique blend of ingredients that elevate a simple pasta dish to a gourmet experience. The creaminess of the sauce, paired with the tender bites of sausage, creates a heavenly taste that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends. The best part is that this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to impress.
Ingredients
- 8 oz ditalini pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
To start making Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, begin by cooking the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Cooking Process
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is well combined and the sauce has thickened slightly. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread for a more substantial feast. The creamy sauce begs to be soaked up with a piece of crusty bread, making it a delightful indulgence for carb lovers. For a lighter option, a side of steamed vegetables would complement the dish beautifully.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of this decadent pasta dish, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. You can also freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, though the texture of the pasta may vary slightly upon thawing.
Variations
For a twist on the classic recipe, consider using spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick of heat. You can also add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the sauce for a burst of color and additional nutrients. If you’re a fan of a smoky flavor, try grilling the sausage before slicing and incorporating it into the pasta. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or fontina, to create your unique version of this dish.
FAQ
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk for heavy cream in this recipe if you’re looking to lighten the dish slightly. Keep in mind that using milk may result in a thinner sauce, so you might need to adjust the amount of cheese to maintain the desired creaminess.
How spicy is the dish with Italian sausage?
The spiciness of the dish largely depends on the type of Italian sausage you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for sweet Italian sausage. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy Italian sausage will add a kick to the dish without being overly spicy. You can also mix both varieties for a balanced flavor profile.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta by swapping the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage crumbles or diced mushrooms. The rest of the recipe remains the same, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that appeals to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a saucepan, add the cooked pasta and cheese, and stir until heated through. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without the last-minute rush.
Conclusion
Indulge in the luxuriously creamy and flavorful Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta for a meal that will leave your taste buds singing with delight. Whether you’re cooking for a special date night or looking to impress your family with a decadent dinner, this recipe is a surefire winner. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the explosion of flavors makes this dish a standout favorite that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. Don’t hesitate to whip up this pasta perfection and savor every delightful bite!
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Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Description
This creamy Ditalini Sausage Pasta is perfect for any night of the week, loved by the whole family!
Ingredients
8 oz ditalini pasta
1 lb Italian sausage
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the skillet and toss until it is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve the creamy marry me ditalini sausage pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil.
Notes
This creamy pasta dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion, hence the name “Marry Me.”
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4