Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

A fusion of indulgent “marry me” pasta and elevated comfort food, this creamy ditalini sausage pasta will win your heart—and your taste buds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Luxurious: The rich cream sauce, infused with Parmesan, brings a velvety texture to every bite.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Savory Italian sausage and perfectly cooked ditalini pasta create a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a dinner party, this recipe fits the bill.

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Preparation Phase & Tools

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Nonstick Sauté Pan: Ideal for cooking the sausage and sauce.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring and mixing the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precision for perfect results every time.

Preparation Tips

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta al dente ensures it holds its shape and absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
2. Prep Ingredients Ahead: Mince garlic, dice onion, and measure out your ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
3. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the sauce’s flavor.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces ditalini pasta
• 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

Optional Garnish

• Red pepper flakes

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta in a colander, drizzle lightly with avocado oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

• Heat a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add the mild Italian ground sausage. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces.
• Add diced sweet onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Caramelize the Tomato Paste

• Stir in 1–1.5 tablespoons of tomato paste. Allow it to caramelize for 2–3 minutes. This step enhances the sauce’s depth and flavor.
• Season with a pinch of kosher salt and a few turns of cracked black pepper.

4. Deglaze and Create the Sauce

• Deglaze the pan by adding low-sodium chicken broth. Stir and allow the liquid to reduce by half, concentrating the flavors.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream and stir well to create a smooth, creamy base.

5. Incorporate Cheese and Pasta

• Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce.
• Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the pan and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

6. Adjust the Sauce Consistency

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

7. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy warm!

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Notes

• For a Spicy Twist: Swap mild Italian sausage with spicy Italian sausage for an added kick.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth before adding freshly cooked pasta.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a little extra chicken broth to refresh the creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta into a full, satisfying meal, pair it with these complementary sides:

1. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan shavings, and creamy Caesar dressing bring a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter add crunch and flavor.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for a simple, savory side.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze provide a refreshing burst of flavor.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred and drizzled with lemon juice for a bright and healthy pairing.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, cured meats, and cheeses complements the pasta’s Italian-inspired flavors.
7. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: A quick, healthy side that balances the richness of the dish.
8. Creamy Polenta: This buttery side mirrors the creamy texture of the pasta and creates a cohesive plate.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe can encounter pitfalls. Avoid these common mistakes to perfect your Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta should be al dente, ensuring it holds its texture and doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping Tomato Paste Caramelization: This crucial step deepens the sauce’s flavor. Don’t rush it!
• Not Deglazing the Pan: The browned bits at the bottom of the pan are flavor gold. Deglazing with chicken broth ensures they’re incorporated into the sauce.
• Using Pre-Shredded Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and adds superior flavor.
• Over-Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce reduces too much, it can become overly thick. Always keep chicken broth handy to adjust the consistency.

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Recipe Enhancements and Variations

Spicy Upgrade

• Swap mild Italian sausage for spicy sausage or add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.

Vegetarian Option

• Replace sausage with plant-based ground meat or roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.

Cheese Swaps

• Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.

Add Greens

• Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the final minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

Seafood Twist

• Replace sausage with cooked shrimp or chunks of crab meat for a seafood spin on this creamy pasta.

Herb Infusion

• Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Recipe Tips

For the best Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, keep these tips in mind:

1. Balance the Sauce: If the sauce feels too rich, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of white wine to brighten the flavors.
2. Go Fresh: Use fresh garlic, onions, and Parmesan for maximum flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic or pre-grated cheese for best results.
3. Custom Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to tailor the heat to your preference.
4. Make it Heartier: Add extra protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a fried egg on top for a gourmet touch.
5. Double the Recipe: This dish is perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Double the ingredients, and freeze portions for later.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating Tips

• On the Stovetop: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.
• In the Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of chicken broth, and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Freezing Instructions

• While best fresh, the sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge, reheat, and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Absolutely! Short pastas like penne, rigatoni, or macaroni work wonderfully in this recipe.

Q: Is there a lighter version of this dish?
A: Yes! Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for turkey sausage to reduce fat content.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Swap the sausage with plant-based ground meat or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Cook the pasta fresh and combine with the reheated sauce when ready to serve.

Q: What’s the best substitute for Parmesan cheese?
A: Pecorino Romano is an excellent option for a slightly sharper taste.

Q: How do I adjust the consistency of the sauce?
A: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water. If it’s too thin, simmer it gently until it reduces to the desired consistency.

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Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is the perfect balance of richness, flavor, and ease. Its hearty combination of Italian sausage, creamy Parmesan sauce, and tender ditalini pasta makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.

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