Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta

Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that combines flavors and comfort into one amazing meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or trying to impress a special someone, this pasta will certainly do the trick. Imagine the rich aroma of Italian sausage sizzling in the pan, mingling with garlic and wine, while creamy tomato sauce waits to envelop your perfectly cooked pasta. It sounds dreamy, right? The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to whip up! So, grab your ingredients and let’s make a dish that’s not only delicious but also has a way of stealing hearts. You’re going to love this recipe, whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special celebration.

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Why This Recipe Works

This Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta works wonders because it combines the richness of Italian sausage with a creamy tomato sauce. The comforting meal is perfect for any occasion. Moreover, using simple ingredients turns this dish into something that feels luxurious without being overly complicated. The flavors balance beautifully, providing a savory yet slightly tangy experience that appeals to everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta

You’ll absolutely love this dish because it’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The name really does say it all—it has a unique way of winning hearts! Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also impresses enough to serve to guests. You get a fabulous meal ready in no time, which is a major win for busy evenings.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)
• 11 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy based on preference)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 small handful fresh basil, chopped or torn
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)

Cooking Instructions

Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining it to help adjust the sauce later!

Cook the Sausage

Next, remove the casings from the Italian sausage and crumble the meat into a skillet. Sauté it over medium-high heat until it’s browned, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess fat.

Sauté Garlic and Deglaze with Wine

Now, in the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant, which adds a wonderful aroma. Then pour in the white wine and let it bubble, allowing it to reduce by half. This step builds great flavor for your sauce!

Create the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir in the heavy cream and tomato paste until everything is well combined. After that, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Now, pour in the cornstarch slurry and be sure to scrape any browned bits from the skillet, as they add depth to your sauce.

Combine and Cook

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. This is where the magic happens—everything comes together beautifully.

Toss with Pasta

When the sauce is ready, drain the pasta, keeping a little splash of the cooking water if needed. Toss the pasta in the skillet with the sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if it seems too thick. This makes for a creamy, cohesive dish!

Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta immediately, topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese if you like. It adds just the right touch!

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even more indulgent, pair this dish with some warm garlic bread. A light side salad with a vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the pasta nicely.

Tips for Success

For added flavor, consider using a high-quality Italian sausage. Adjust the red pepper flakes to match your heat preference, ensuring everyone enjoys the taste in their own way.

Variations

Want to switch it up? You can swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage or even plant-based sausage for a lighter version. Adding spinach or kale can boost the veggie factor while adding nutrients, making it even more delightful.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to keep it creamy.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy your Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta with a glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent companions and complete the meal perfectly.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you like—just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
   Definitely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based version or even mushrooms for that hearty texture.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, consider preparing the sauce in advance. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for optimal texture.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   You can add more cornstarch slurry or allow the sauce to simmer longer without adding the pasta to help it thicken.

5. What can I add for extra flavor?
   Consider adding capers, olives, or fresh lemon juice for a delightful zing that enhances the overall flavor profile.

This Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta dish promises to impress anyone who tastes it, bringing together comfort and indulgence in each bite. Whether it’s a family meal or a romantic dinner, you’ll savor the creamy textures and rich flavors, making it a fast favorite among your loved ones! Enjoy creating this dish and the wonderful moments it brings to your table!

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