Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta! It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made it for a small gathering at my place. My friends were skeptical at first—“Sausage pasta? Really?”—but by the end of the night, they were all fighting over the last bit in the pot! It’s rich, creamy, and absolutely packed with flavor. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it could inspire someone to pop the question!
This recipe combines tender ditalini pasta with savory sausage, garlic, and a luscious cream sauce that’s so good, it’ll have you dreaming of second helpings. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, and bonus—it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for entertaining. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the details!
What’s in Delicious Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
Ditalini Pasta: This little tube-shaped pasta is not just adorable, but it also holds onto the sauce like a champ! You can also use any small pasta shape, but seriously, ditalini has a charm of its own.
Italian Sausage: The heart of this dish! I usually go for mild or sweet sausage to balance the creaminess, but feel free to spice things up with hot sausage if you prefer some heat.
Garlic: This is where the magic begins! Minced garlic gives the dish a fragrant depth. I insist on going fresh—none of that pre-minced stuff!
Heavy Cream: Ah, the star ingredient! It transforms the sauce into a rich, velvety dream. Don’t skimp here; the creaminess is vital!
Parmesan Cheese: Because pasta and cheese are like peanut butter and jelly. Freshly grated, of course! It adds a nutty flavor that rounds out the dish perfectly.
Spinach: For that lovely green pop! Plus, it adds a little nutritional boost. You can swap it for kale or leave it out if you’re not a greens fan.
Is Delicious Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Good for You?
This dish is definitely a comfort food classic, but let’s take a moment to chat about its health benefits and considerations.
Ditalini Pasta: It’s a good source of carbohydrates, making it an excellent energy booster. You could also use whole grain varieties to add more fiber to your meal.
Italian Sausage: While it provides a good amount of protein, sausage is often high in fat and sodium, so moderation is key. Look for leaner options or turkey sausage to keep things a bit lighter.
Heavy Cream: This does elevate the rich flavor, but it’s also high in calories. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Spinach: It enhances the dish with essential vitamins and minerals. So yes, toss in those greens for a boost!
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces ditalini pasta (serves 4)
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
How to Make Delicious Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta?
1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, just until fragrant.
4. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently, stirring frequently, for around 3-4 minutes until thickened.
5. Toss in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Add the cooked ditalini and fresh spinach. Stir to combine, letting the spinach wilt for about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent!
Delicious Tips and Serving Suggestions
– If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. The flavors marry beautifully overnight, if you can resist the temptation!
– Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You will be the talk of the table!
Trust me, once you try this creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and let me know how it turns out! Enjoy!
