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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large, high-sided skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Build the Sauce
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, letting them soften slightly.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese.
- Cook, stirring, until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently, and add more pasta water if needed to achieve a glossy finish.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Divide the pasta among serving bowls.
- Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color.
- 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.
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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!
Best Marry Me Pasta – Simple & Delicious
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with ¼ cup of reserved pasta water.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve a glossy finish.
- Divide the pasta among serving bowls.
- Top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for a heartier meal.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder dish.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh Parmesan and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes elevate the dish’s flavor.
