Description
Creamy, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious, this Best Marry Me Pasta is sure to win hearts. With its rich sauce, tender pasta, and perfect blend of herbs and spices, it’s a dish that’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for something special.
Ingredients
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 1 pound rigatoni (or pasta of choice)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated (plus more for serving)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh basil, torn (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- 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.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- 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.
- Make the Sauce:
- 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.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- 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.
- Serve and Garnish:
- 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.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian