Marry Me Pasta

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug, then Marry Me Pasta is your answer! This delightful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to whip up. Who wouldn’t want to impress their loved ones with a dish that could spark romance? Trust me; this pasta will have everyone asking for seconds!

The beauty of Marry Me Pasta lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of light cream and sun-dried tomatoes gives this dish a rich flavor that you’ll crave again and again.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this creamy pasta dish. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply toss it with freshly cooked noodles when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: With plenty of options for tweaks and substitutions, you can make it your own every time you cook!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create Marry Me Pasta. Gather these items, and let’s get cooking!

For the Sauce

• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, grated
• 2 cups light cream
• 1 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes + 1 tablespoon oil from the jar
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (more if you want it to be spicy!)

For the Pasta

• 3/4 box of thin linguini or other long noodle of your choice (if using short noodles, use about 3 cups of dry noodles)
• Reserved pasta water

Variations

The best part about Marry Me Pasta is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Make It Spicy: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in some sautéed jalapeños.
• Swap the Noodles: Try using whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.

How to Make Marry Me Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Paste

Start by measuring out your sun-dried tomatoes. Chop them finely, then blend them with some oil from the jar until they turn into a coarse paste. This step adds an incredible depth of flavor that makes the sauce rich and satisfying.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring salted water to a boil and cook your chosen noodles according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of that starchy pasta water before straining. This will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While your pasta cooks, melt butter in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add grated garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, dried thyme, and chicken bouillon powder. Sautéing these ingredients brings out their flavors beautifully—just one minute is all you need!

Step 4: Add Cream

Pour in the light cream and let it heat gently for about five minutes while stirring occasionally. A light simmer is perfect here; avoid boiling since we want to keep that creamy texture smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time for magic! Stir in fresh grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh basil. Let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to use that reserved pasta water if needed—it helps bring everything together perfectly.

Step 6: Finish Up

Finally, add your cooked noodles into the sauce and stir well to coat them evenly. Turn off the heat and serve right away! Garnish with more Parmesan cheese if desired.

And there you have it—your very own plate of Marry Me Pasta! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Pasta

Making Marry Me Pasta is a breeze, and with these handy tips, you’ll be sure to impress everyone at your dinner table!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh garlic and basil can enhance the flavors of your dish significantly. Fresh herbs add a delightful aroma and brightness that dried ones simply can’t match.
• Adjust the Spiciness: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Remember to save that starchy pasta water! It’s a magical ingredient that helps you achieve the perfect creamy consistency in your sauce.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently. This approach melds all the flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is fantastic, try mixing in other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a unique twist on flavor and creaminess.

How to Serve Marry Me Pasta

Serving Marry Me Pasta is as delightful as making it! Presentation can elevate this dish from everyday comfort food to a romantic dinner centerpiece.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh basil not only look beautiful but also add an aromatic touch that complements the dish wonderfully.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Shaving or grating some extra Parmesan on top just before serving adds richness and visual appeal.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love a bit of spice, sprinkle some additional crushed red pepper on top for an eye-catching finish and extra flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The ultimate companion! Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining creamy sauce on your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli brings freshness and color to your meal while providing a nutritious balance.
• Simple Arugula Salad: Toss together arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite nuts for a light salad that cuts through the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized will add depth and texture to your dinner table.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set for a deliciously cozy meal that could just sweep someone off their feet! Enjoy every bite of this creamy pasta delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily store it for later use, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you want to have something delicious ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Marry Me Pasta!

What makes Marry Me Pasta so special?

Marry Me Pasta is special because it’s a creamy, comforting dish that can impress anyone at your dinner table. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion!

Can I customize my Marry Me Pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or swap out the linguini for your favorite type of pasta. The creamy sauce pairs well with many ingredients!

How long does Marry Me Pasta last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Marry Me Pasta will last in the fridge for about 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before storing!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Marry Me Pasta! It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may every bite be filled with love!