Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Airtight container for up to 3 days.Quick Answer:
This creamy Marry Me Pasta recipe combines al dente penne with rich garlic, tomatoes, and Parmesan for a delightful meal that's sure to impress.As the holiday season approaches in New York City, I find myself craving comforting and flavorful dishes that bring warmth to my dining table. One such dish is my Marry Me Pasta, a creamy and indulgent recipe that never fails to delight friends and family. With the festive spirit in the air, this dish is perfect for cozy gatherings or a romantic dinner by the twinkling lights of the city.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's a comforting, creamy pasta dish that's sure to impress your loved ones.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream creates a rich flavor profile that's irresistible.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
- Leftovers are just as delicious and easy to reheat, making it a great meal prep option!
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make Marry Me Pasta.
Pasta and Dairy
- 12 ounces of penne pasta
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes, drained
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Marry Me Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a dish that's sure to impress!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. I always prefer to taste the pasta a minute or two before the time is up to ensure it's cooked just right. Once done, reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté these aromatics for about 1 minute, or until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, making sure not to burn it. The nutty aroma of the garlic infusing with the oil is just heavenly!
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes. You'll want that tomato juice to evaporate a bit and intensify the flavor.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. As it bubbles away, you can almost hear it whispering rich, creamy promises. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and the sauce becomes glossy and inviting. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Here's where the magic truly lies-sometimes I like to add a pinch of nutmeg for an unexpected twist!
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in that luxurious sauce. If the pasta seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. The vibrant green against the creamy backdrop is absolutely picturesque!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure it's al dente; it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Burning the Garlic: Keep an eye on it; burnt garlic can make the dish bitter.
- Skipping the Starchy Pasta Water: This helps to loosen the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the pasta.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a vegetarian twist, add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mix.
- This dish pairs incredibly well with a light salad and crusty bread.
- If you love a touch of sweetness, a dash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the flavors.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
Variations
- Swap penne pasta for farfalle or fusilli for different textures.
- Replace heavy cream with a mix of half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
How to Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on the side for extra flavor.
- Pair with a light white wine, like Pinot Grigio.
- Offer warm breadsticks or garlic bread on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or cream to revive the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the cream may separate upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While perfecting this recipe, I discovered the importance of using high-quality ingredients, especially the Parmesan cheese-it makes all the difference! I also learned that this dish is the perfect centerpiece for cozy gatherings during Thanksgiving and Christmas; its creamy, comforting nature invites warmth and cheer to the table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~500 calories · 15g protein · 55g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Marry Me Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until garlic turns golden and fragrant.
- Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomato juice evaporates.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for the Marry Me Pasta recipe?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other types like fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and consider reducing the amount of cheese or using a lighter cheese option.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving to ensure it doesn't become mushy.
4. What can I serve with Marry Me Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a light salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
5. How can I enhance the flavors of the sauce?
You can add extra ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth and a touch of sweetness.
