When a recipe earns a name like “Marry Me Pasta,” you know it’s something special. This creamy, flavorful pasta dish has a reputation for being so good that it could inspire a marriage proposal. But even if you’re already hitched or not looking to tie the knot, this dish will win your heart. Let’s explore why this Best Marry Me Pasta is a must-make and how you can create it effortlessly at home.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Marry Me Pasta

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible flavor.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s date night or a family dinner, this pasta never disappoints.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to your dietary preferences or spice tolerance.

Ingredients for Marry Me Pasta

Here’s everything you need to make this delectable dish:

Ingredient	Amount
Kosher salt	To taste
Rigatoni	1 lb.
Extra-virgin olive oil	1 Tbsp.
Garlic (finely chopped)	3 cloves
Fresh thyme leaves	1 Tbsp.
Crushed red pepper flakes	1/2 tsp.
Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)	1/2 cup
Heavy cream	3/4 cup
Low-sodium chicken/vegetable broth	3/4 cup
Parmesan (finely grated)	1/2 cup, plus more for serving
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste
Torn fresh basil	For garnish

How to Make the Best Marry Me Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large, high-sided skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, letting them soften slightly.
2. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese.
4. Cook, stirring, until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken (about 5 minutes).

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet.
2. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
3. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently, and add more pasta water if needed to achieve a glossy finish.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the pasta among serving bowls.
2. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starch in the reserved water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh Parmesan and good-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• Experiment with Proteins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	~550
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	60g
Fats	24g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	500mg

FAQs

1. What is the best pasta for this dish?

Rigatoni works beautifully because its ridges hold the creamy sauce well. Penne or farfalle are great alternatives.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and check that your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.

4. Can I freeze Marry Me Pasta?

While the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread makes an excellent pairing. You can also serve roasted vegetables for a lighter option.

6. Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but the sauce may be less rich.

Final Thoughts: Bring Joy to Your Table

The Best Marry Me Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Its creamy, comforting flavors are sure to make your loved ones smile. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply indulging in a comforting dish, this recipe is a guaranteed success.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the magic of Marry Me Pasta tonight. Your next favorite meal is just a simmer away!

Print