Get ready to fall head over heels for a pasta dish that blends rustic Italian charm with creamy, dreamy comfort. This Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta boasts tiny tube-shaped ditalini that cradle every luscious drop of sauce, enveloping you in a velvety embrace with each bite. As soon as you swirl your fork, you’ll encounter savory Italian sausage, gently spiced with red pepper flakes and black pepper, mingling with sweet, sun-dried tomatoes and a generous shower of Parmesan. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a family gathering when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
But the real magic happens when that heavy cream and chicken broth come together in the skillet, transforming into a silken, silky sauce that clings to each pasta piece. The tender onion and garlic notes dance beneath layers of tangy tomato paste, while fresh basil leaves add a pop of herbaceous brightness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers big flavor in just under an hour—all with beginner-friendly steps that guarantee success. Trust me, once you taste this soulful creation, you’ll be writing love letters to your own kitchen.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY MARRY ME DITALINI SAUSAGE PASTA
Every unforgettable dish starts with standout ingredients, and this creamy sausage pasta is no exception. These pantry staples come together to create layers of flavor, texture, and aroma, ensuring each forkful is a symphony of taste. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe shine:
- Ditalini pasta
These short, tubular noodles are perfect for trapping that luxurious sauce. Their petite size lets every bit of cream, sausage, and tomato cling to each piece, guaranteeing a balanced bite every time.
- Olive oil
A quality extra-virgin olive oil provides a silky base for sautéing. It helps brown the sausage and onions without burning, and adds a hint of fruity richness.
- Italian sausage
The star of the show, this seasoned meat brings a robust, savory depth. Removing the casing lets you break it into small, flavorful crumbles that disperse evenly throughout the dish.
- Onion
Finely chopped onion softens and sweetens as it cooks, laying a fragrant foundation that complements the garlic and sausage.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the sauce with its signature pungent warmth, rounding out the savory profile.
- Red pepper flakes
A pinch or two adds just the right amount of heat, balancing the creaminess and lending a gentle kick that wakes up your palate.
- Black pepper
Freshly cracked, it enhances the sausage’s spice and ties all the flavors together.
- Heavy cream
This is where the sauce gets its lush, velvety texture. It brings decadence and body, making each bite feel indulgent.
- Chicken broth
A splash lightens the cream just enough to prevent it from feeling too heavy, while adding subtle savory notes.
- Parmesan cheese
Grated into the sauce, it melts into gooey strands of umami goodness, boosting both flavor and creaminess.
- Tomato paste
A concentrated burst of tomato flavor, it deepens the sauce’s color and introduces tangy complexity.
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Chopped into little jewels of sweet-tart intensity, they provide bursts of concentrated tomato goodness.
- Salt
Essential for heightening every ingredient’s natural flavors and ensuring the dish isn’t bland.
- Fresh basil leaves
Torn and sprinkled on top, they add a refreshing herbal note and vibrant green flourish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
A final dusting elevates presentation and adds extra savory flair just before digging in.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY MARRY ME DITALINI SAUSAGE PASTA
This recipe moves from stove to table in under an hour, and it’s as straightforward as it is satisfying. From cooking your pasta to building layers of flavor in the skillet, each step is designed for maximum taste with minimum fuss. Let’s break it down:
1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—tender but still with a slight bite. This ensures your noodles hold up when tossed in the sauce. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
2. In a spacious skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. This browning step develops the sausage’s deep, savory notes.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until the pieces become translucent and tender, about 3–4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Continue cooking for an additional minute, or until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom, releasing their aroma.
5. Lower the heat to prevent scorching, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients, creating a smooth, unified sauce base.
6. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the tomato paste is evenly distributed, turning the sauce a luscious pinkish hue.
7. Add the cooked ditalini pasta directly into the skillet. Gently toss or stir until each piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sausage mixture, ensuring that every tube holds onto some of the sauce.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Remember that the Parmesan is salty, so add conservatively and re-taste.
9. Transfer to serving bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a final sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an inviting, colorful finish.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY MARRY ME DITALINI SAUSAGE PASTA
When it comes to plating and pairing, this dish shines with a few thoughtful touches that elevate the entire experience. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these suggestions will help you serve your pasta with style and complementary flavors.
- Serve in pre-warmed bowls to keep the sauce silky and hot from the first bite to the last. Simply nestle your pasta into deep ceramic bowls warmed in the oven for a few minutes.
- Pair with a crisp mixed greens salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Offer a side of garlic bread or crunchy baguette slices. Brush with extra-virgin olive oil, sprinkle minced garlic and parsley, then toast until golden. It’s perfect for sopping up every creamy morsel.
- Accompany with a glass of chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The bright acidity and herbaceous notes underscore the basil and sun-dried tomatoes, completing each mouthful beautifully.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY MARRY ME DITALINI SAUSAGE PASTA
Keeping your leftovers just as delightful as the first serving requires some simple storage strategies. Proper techniques will maintain both flavor and texture, so you can enjoy this comfort classic days later without compromise.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers
Allow the pasta to cool slightly, then transfer to containers with tight-fitting lids. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chilling the dish promptly prevents bacterial growth and keeps the sauce from becoming grainy.
- Freeze portions for long-term storage
If you want to save extra servings, divide the pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
- Reheat gently on the stove
To revive the sauce’s creaminess, warm the pasta in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and stir continuously until heated through.
- Microwave with care
Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between bursts. Adding a teaspoon of water or broth helps preserve moisture.
CONCLUSION
This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta has everything you crave in comfort food: tender pasta tubes, savory sausage, silky sauce, and pops of tangy sun-dried tomato and fresh basil. We’ve explored each key ingredient, walked through every cooking step in detail, and shared tips for plating, pairing, and preserving those delicious leftovers. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe offers approachable techniques and foolproof flavor combinations that suit any occasion—weeknight dinner, date night, or casual gathering. Plus, with just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cook time, it fits easily into busy schedules without skimping on taste.
Feel free to print this article or save it to your favorite recipe folder for effortless access whenever pasta cravings strike. You’ll also find an FAQ section below to address common questions and troubleshoot potential hiccups, so you’re always equipped to make this dish shine. If you give this savory creation a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask any questions you have. Your feedback and kitchen stories inspire me and fellow home cooks to keep stirring up delicious meals. Happy cooking!
Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this creamy ditalini pasta, brimming with savory sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of spice. Perfect for any romantic dinner!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
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Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Mix in the Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the tomato paste is well incorporated.
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Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat the pasta with the creamy sausage mixture.
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Season with salt to taste.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Note
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter option.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness; feel free to adjust the quantity to your liking.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Fresh basil leaves enhance the flavor and add a pop of color.
