There's nothing quite like the rich aroma of creamy pasta filling your kitchen, especially when it's paired with the savory notes of Italian sausage and garlic. This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta combines tender, bite-sized pasta with a luxurious sauce that's as irresistible as its name implies. Perfect for a cozy dinner or even a romantic evening, itโs a dish that earns its title by wowing everyone at the table.

I discovered this gem while searching for a way to upgrade our weeknight dinners. With just the right mix of comforting and indulgent, it quickly became a household favorite. Ready to whip up a dish so good you'll want to "marry" it? Let's dive in!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Get ready to fall head over heels for this pasta dish. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also checks all the boxes for a stress-free dinner solution.
First, this recipe is quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you're short on time but still want something special.
Second, itโs a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser. Using simple pantry staples and a pack of sausage, you can create a meal that feels fancy without breaking the bank.
The dish is also incredibly versatile. Whether you want to swap out the sausage for chicken, use gluten-free pasta, or sneak in some extra veggies, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.
Finally, this pasta brings the comfort-food factor in spades. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and hearty sausage come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients Notes
The secret to the irresistible flavor of this dish lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a role in making this pasta unforgettable.
Ditalini pasta is the star of the show. Its small, tube-like shape is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. While you could substitute another short pasta, ditalini is ideal for ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
The Italian sausage adds a savory depth to the dish. Opt for mild or spicy sausage based on your preference. If you're looking to lighten things up, turkey or chicken sausage works beautifully too.
For the sauce, a combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates the perfect creamy texture. The cream gives it richness, while the Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick that balances the dish.
Garlic and onions form the aromatic base of the sauce, infusing it with layers of flavor. Don't skimp on these; they're essential for that restaurant-quality taste.
Finally, a handful of fresh basil elevates the dish with its bright, herbal notes. If you donโt have fresh basil on hand, a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning can work in a pinch.
Youโll also need a large skillet and a pot for boiling the pasta. Having these ready ensures the cooking process is seamless and efficient.
How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta
Creating this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps, and youโll have a meal thatโs sure to impress.
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it's rolling, add the ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as this can help adjust the sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles as it browns. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil, followed by the diced onions and minced garlic. Sautรฉ until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The garlic will release a fragrant aroma that sets the tone for the dish.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce and creates a velvety texture.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained ditalini pasta, folding everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Finish the dish by sprinkling it with freshly chopped basil and an extra handful of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, and enjoy the creamy, savory perfection.
Storage Options
Leftovers of this pasta dish are a gift youโll be happy to receive! Hereโs how to store and reheat it for best results.
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months, though the sauce may lose some creaminess upon thawing.
When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's consistency. Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If microwaving, use a lower power setting and stir midway to avoid uneven heating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ways to customize it to your liking:
- Protein Swap: Substitute the sausage with diced chicken, shrimp, or even a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or tofu.
- Pasta Variety: If ditalini isnโt available, try penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli for a similar effect.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute for a lactose-free version.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for a boost of color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for an extra layer of heat.
Experimenting with variations is half the fun. Donโt be afraid to make this recipe your own and discover new family favorites.
With its rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and savory sausage, this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is bound to become a new go-to recipe. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting friends, or treating yourself to a special dinner, itโs a dish that delivers every single time. So grab your apron and get ready to create something truly unforgettable!
PrintCreamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is a mouthwatering dish packed with rich flavors from Italian sausage, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the ditalini pasta, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz ditalini pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ยฝ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ยฝ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
- ยผ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
- Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3โ4 minutes.
- Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Mix in cooked pasta and spinach (if using), stirring to coat evenly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use spicy sausage for extra heat.
- Swap ditalini for penne or rigatoni if preferred.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
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