Description
Marry Me Pasta is a delightful culinary creation known for its creamy sauce, bold flavors, and irresistible texture. The story goes that this dish is so mouthwatering, it might just lead to a marriage proposal, giving it its charming, romantic name. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or aiming to impress someone special, this recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients
- Pasta: Penne or rigatoni works best, as they hold the creamy sauce well.
- Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil for richer flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: This is the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to balance the richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: These give the dish a subtle kick of heat.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped basil for garnish adds freshness.
- Chicken Broth (Optional): Adds extra depth of flavor, though some recipes omit it.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add penne or rigatoni, and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
Tip: Save a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.
Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth (if using), stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add red pepper flakes and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta.
- Serve immediately, optionally with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Marry Me Pasta Recipe