Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is the answer! This cozy dish combines tender ditalini pasta, flavorful Italian sausage, and a creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce to create a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Perfect for busy weeknights or an impromptu date night, it’s a recipe that delivers both convenience and flavor in every bite.

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Why you’ll love this recipe:

• It’s quick to prepare and takes only 35 minutes.
• The creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce is rich, savory, and irresistible.
• Perfectly sized ditalini pasta ensures every bite is coated in sauce.
• The recipe is customizable with additional veggies or your choice of heat level.

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Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Nonstick sauté pan: For cooking sausage and creating the sauce.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring ingredients and ensuring even cooking.

Importance of Each Tool

• A nonstick sauté pan prevents the sausage from sticking and ensures even browning.
• A colander allows for efficient draining of the pasta while keeping it al dente.
• A wooden spoon makes it easy to scrape up browned bits, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.

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Preparation Tips

• Cook pasta to al dente: The pasta will continue to absorb sauce after being mixed, so slightly undercooking it helps maintain its texture.
• Mise en place: Pre-measure and prepare all your ingredients to make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
• Don’t skip caramelizing the tomato paste: This step deepens the sauce’s flavor, adding richness and complexity.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces ditalini pasta (or substitute small shells or elbow macaroni)
• 1–2 tablespoons avocado oil (to prevent sticking after cooking)

For the Sauce

• 8 ounces mild Italian ground sausage (hot sausage works for a spicy variation)
• ½ cup sweet onion, diced small (about half a medium onion)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (approximately 1 teaspoon)
• 1–1.5 tablespoons tomato paste
• Pinch of kosher salt
• Few turns of cracked black pepper
• ½–¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ¾–1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (preferably fresh)

Optional Garnish

• Red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Generously season the water with kosher salt (this enhances the pasta’s flavor).
• Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente (approximately 8–10 minutes).
• Drain the pasta using a colander, drizzle with a little avocado oil to prevent sticking, and set it aside.

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2. Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

• Heat a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add the mild Italian ground sausage. Cook until golden brown, breaking it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
• Add the diced sweet onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion turns translucent (about 3–4 minutes).

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3. Caramelize the Tomato Paste

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes, letting it caramelize slightly. This step intensifies the flavor, adding a deep, savory note to the sauce.
• Season with a pinch of kosher salt and a few turns of cracked black pepper.

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4. Deglaze the Pan

• Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (this adds depth to the sauce).
• Let the broth reduce by half, concentrating the flavor.

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5. Create the Creamy Sauce

• Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until fully combined, creating a smooth, creamy base.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and well incorporated.

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6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

• Toss the cooked ditalini pasta into the sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece.

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7. Adjust the Consistency

• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it to your desired consistency.

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8. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, if desired.
• Serve the pasta warm, with extra Parmesan on the side for garnish.

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Notes

• Storage Tip: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
• Cheese Swap: Pecorino Romano can be used instead of Parmesan for a sharper, saltier flavor.
• Consistency Adjustments: If the sauce thickens after cooling, add a little chicken broth or cream when reheating.

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Serving Suggestions

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and presentations. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Serve family-style in a large, shallow dish with fresh Parmesan and red pepper flakes on the side for guests to customize.
• Pair with crusty garlic bread to mop up the creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added freshness and color.
• Plate individual portions and sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top for a restaurant-quality presentation.
• Offer a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water to complement the creamy richness of the dish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta

• Tip: Cook the ditalini pasta until just al dente since it will continue to absorb the sauce after mixing.

1. Skipping Tomato Paste Caramelization

• Tip: Don’t rush this step! Cooking the tomato paste for 2–3 minutes deepens the sauce’s flavor and gives it a rich, slightly sweet note.

1. Adding Cream Too Quickly or at High Heat

• Tip: Always lower the heat to medium or medium-low before stirring in the heavy cream to prevent curdling.

1. Neglecting to Deglaze the Pan

• Tip: Use chicken broth to deglaze and scrape up the browned bits from the pan. These bits carry concentrated flavor and enhance the sauce.

1. Forgetting to Adjust Consistency

• Tip: If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with small splashes of chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

1. Not Grating Your Own Parmesan

• Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a superior flavor compared to pre-grated options.

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Side Dish Recommendations

To complement the rich, creamy flavors of this dish, serve it alongside these carefully selected sides:

1. Garlic Bread

• Warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic pairing. Use it to scoop up the creamy sauce for an indulgent experience.

2. Caesar Salad

• A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, Parmesan, and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Caprese Salad

• Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and refreshing contrast.

4. Roasted Vegetables

• Roast zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus with olive oil and garlic to add a healthy, flavorful element.

5. Steamed Broccoli

• Lightly steamed broccoli provides a simple, nutritious option that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

6. Antipasto Platter

• Serve a variety of marinated olives, cured meats, cheeses, and artichoke hearts for an Italian-inspired appetizer.

7. Bruschetta

• Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is a delightful and garlicky starter.

8. Creamy Tomato Soup

• Pairing the pasta with a light tomato soup creates a comforting and cohesive meal.

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With these serving suggestions and side dishes, your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta dinner will feel like a complete and satisfying feast!

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Recipe Tips

To ensure your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta turns out perfect every time, follow these expert tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor.

1. Customize the Heat Level

• Add more red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for a spicier version.

1. Don’t Skip the Broth Reduction

• Letting the broth reduce intensifies the flavors in the sauce, so be patient during this step.

1. Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and an herbaceous finish.

1. Double the Recipe for Leftovers

• This dish stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep. Simply double the ingredients for a larger batch.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: While the pasta can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm the pasta over medium-low heat in a pan with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add a little liquid if needed to keep the sauce creamy.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

• Yes! Substitute the sausage with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian option.

2. What other types of pasta can I use?

• Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or even orzo work well as substitutes for ditalini.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?

• Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage. You can also swap heavy cream for a lighter alternative, such as half-and-half or unsweetened coconut cream.

4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can make the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without the sauce breaking?

• Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent the cream from separating.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

• Yes! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers are excellent additions to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

• While pre-grated Parmesan is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a richer flavor.

8. How do I adjust the consistency of the sauce?

• If the sauce is too thick, add small splashes of chicken broth or cream until it reaches your preferred consistency.

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Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines ease, flavor, and versatility. With its creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce, savory Italian sausage, and perfectly cooked ditalini pasta, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal-prepping for the week, or serving guests, this dish delivers every time. Pair it with a few sides, follow the storage tips, and enjoy it fresh or as leftovers. With its rich flavors and straightforward preparation, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and earn a spot on your regular rotation.

Bon appétit!