There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta to make your day feel a little more special. This dish combines tender ditalini pasta, savory sausage, and a luscious creamy sauce with a hint of spice, all topped with fresh basil for a dinner that feels like a celebration.

I first tried this recipe when I was experimenting with new ways to elevate weeknight meals without spending hours in the kitchen. The result? A dish so rich and flavorful that my family jokingly said, "If this pasta could talk, it would propose!" Let's dive into what makes this pasta so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this indulgent pasta dish. Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta has everything you need to make dinner the highlight of your day.

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just 30 minutes and a handful of pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress everyone at the table.

The flavor is out of this world. Spicy Italian sausage pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky sauce, while the ditalini pasta absorbs all that goodness, creating the perfect bite every time.

It’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or whipping up a quick family meal, this pasta adapts to fit the mood. Plus, it's kid-approved, so you won’t have to worry about picky eaters.

And let’s not forget the leftovers. This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or packing lunch.

Ready to give it a try? Let’s break down what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component works together to create a dish that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Ditalini pasta is the star of this recipe. Its small, tube-like shape soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like elbows or shells if needed.

Spicy Italian sausage adds depth and a touch of heat to the dish. You can use mild sausage if you prefer a less spicy version, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.

The sauce comes together with a blend of heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. This trio creates a velvety, rich texture that clings to the pasta like a dream. For a lower-fat alternative, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less creamy.

Sun-dried tomatoes provide a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that balances the richness of the sauce. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, as they’re softer and more flavorful.

Don’t forget the fresh basil! It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that ties everything together.

You’ll also need basics like garlic, onion, and a bit of olive oil for sautéing, as well as salt and pepper to taste. No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet and a pot for boiling the pasta.

How To Make This Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering pasta dish is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to bring it all together.

Start by cooking the ditalini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as you might need it later to adjust the sauce's consistency.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Once cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and add the drained ditalini pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and watch as everyone falls in love with this comforting dish.

Storage Options

Leftovers? You’re in luck! This pasta stores beautifully and reheats like a dream.

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge.

If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the spicy sausage for ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative for a milder or meat-free version.
Add a handful of spinach or kale for a boost of greens. Stir them in at the end, allowing them to wilt in the heat of the sauce.
For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Italian seasoning.
Want a tangier sauce? Add a splash of white wine while sautéing the onions and garlic.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

With so many ways to make it your own, this Creamy Marry Me Ditalini Sausage Pasta is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and see why it’s love at first bite!