Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a delightful fusion of rich, creamy flavors and comforting pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish combines Italian sausage with a luscious cream sauce over ditalini pasta. It’s not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor, making it an instant family favorite.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta:
• For the Sauce:
• For Garnish:
• How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
• Step 1: Make the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics
• Step 3: Caramelize the Tomato Paste
• Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce
• Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Pasta
• Step 6: Adjust Consistency
• Step 7: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Include a Side Salad
• Top with Crushed Red Pepper
• Serve in Individual Bowls
• Offer Grated Cheese on the Side
• How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
• Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta special?
• Can I use a different type of pasta?
• How can I customize my Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
• What if I want a lighter version?
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that satisfies cravings.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the dish by adding vegetables or swapping the sausage for chicken or turkey.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The leftovers store well and reheat beautifully, making it ideal for lunch or dinner the next day.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory sausage make this pasta appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick sauté pan
• Colander
• Large pot
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick sauté pan: Prevents food from sticking, allowing for easy cooking and cleanup.
• Colander: Drains pasta efficiently without losing any precious noodles.
• Large pot: Provides ample space for boiling pasta, ensuring even cooking.

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

PIN THIS!

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Make the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

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

Step 3: Caramelize the Tomato Paste

Stir in tomato paste and let it caramelize for 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor. Season with kosher salt and cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce

Deglaze the pan by adding low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well and let it reduce by half. Lower heat to medium-low, then stir in heavy cream until well mixed.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Pasta

Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted. Toss in cooked pasta, mixing until well-coated in sauce.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up without losing flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with red pepper flakes for added heat if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Serving Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

Add Fresh Herbs

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

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy Side: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Include a Side Salad

• Light and Fresh: A simple green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast.

Top with Crushed Red Pepper

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personal Touch: Presenting the pasta in individual bowls can add an elegant touch to your meal, perfect for dinner parties.

Offer Grated Cheese on the Side

• Customize It: Providing grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano allows guests to customize their servings according to their cheese preference.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some helpful tips for success.

• Bold Flavor Base: Sauté the sausage until golden brown for a deeper flavor; this step is crucial for achieving that rich taste.
• Balanced Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you cook; layering flavors is key to making this dish delightful.
• Cream Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, a splash of chicken broth can help maintain a silky texture without losing flavor.
• Cheese Melting: Add cheese gradually while stirring; this ensures it melts evenly into the sauce without clumping.
• Pasta Timing: Cook ditalini pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce, preventing overcooking.
• Reheating Wisely: When reheating leftovers, do so gently with added broth to keep the sauce creamy and prevent separation.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing adds a refreshing crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and herbs offers a vibrant starter.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance and a pop of green.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a colorful side that’s full of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Salt: Not salting the pasta water can result in bland noodles. Always season your water generously to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long leads to mushy texture. Aim for al dente for the best bite.
• Ignoring the Heat: Not allowing the sausage to brown properly may affect the depth of flavor. Sauté until golden for a richer taste.
• Rushing the Sauce: Skipping steps in making the sauce can dilute its flavors. Take time to caramelize and deglaze for an optimal creamy base.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality sausage and cheese for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat, then add pasta, stirring until heated.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta special?

This dish combines rich flavors from Italian sausage and cream, creating an indulgent experience that feels fancy yet is easy enough for weeknight dinners.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is ideal, you can substitute any short pasta like penne or shells if desired.

How can I customize my Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition or switch up the cheese for a different flavor profile.

What if I want a lighter version?

You can use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage and replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is not only delicious but versatile as well. You can easily customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!

---