Marry Me Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug in pasta form, the Marry Me Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, creamy, and loaded with vibrant flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, this pasta is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special enough for a date night but comes together with such ease you’ll find yourself making it on any night you want to impress without the stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and beautiful texture. Each component plays an important role in building the creamy, slightly spicy sauce that defines the Marry Me Pasta Recipe.

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta: A versatile base that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil: Adds a smooth, rich undertone and helps sauté the garlic.
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory punch.
• 1 cup (240 ml) of heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce everyone will swoon over.
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) of chicken broth: Balances the creaminess while adding a subtle depth of flavor.
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese: Brings saltiness and richness, melting expertly into the sauce.
• 1/2 cup (120 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Offers a tangy sweetness that brightens every bite.
• 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes: Provides just the right kick to make the dish exciting and memorable.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
• 1/2 cup (60 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped: Freshness and herbal notes that lift the entire dish.
• Optional – sautéed chicken breast or shrimp, lemon zest for garnish: Great additions to personalize the meal and add extra layers of flavor.

How to Make Marry Me Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta until al dente is crucial because it provides the perfect texture to meld with the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be brought back into the flavorful mix.

Step 2: Infuse Olive Oil with Garlic

In a warm skillet over medium heat, gently heat your olive oil before adding the minced garlic. This step releases the garlic’s aromatic oils, making your kitchen smell irresistible and setting the stage for the sauce’s rich base. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, which would bring bitterness.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce Base

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bringing this mixture to a gentle simmer allows the flavors to marry beautifully, forming the luscious sauce that is the heart of the Marry Me Pasta Recipe.

Step 4: Melt Parmesan Into the Sauce

Add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. This ensures the cheese melts smoothly into the cream, thickening the sauce with its salty, nutty goodness that makes every bite indulgent.

Step 5: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spice

Mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes to blend the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the gentle heat from the pepper flakes, giving the sauce wonderful complexity and a peek of color.

Step 6: Season and Add Protein (Optional)

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting until the flavors sing. If you want to elevate this to a full meal, toss in sautéed chicken breast or shrimp, turning the pasta into a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing well to ensure every strand is coated with that creamy, flavorful sauce. This is where the magic happens, as the pasta soaks up all those vibrant flavors.

Step 8: Stir in Fresh Basil

Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves to infuse the dish with bright herbal notes that cut through the creaminess and bring freshness and color. Save a few basil leaves for garnish to keep that inviting visual appeal.

Step 9: Serve Hot with Garnishes

Serve your Marry Me Pasta Recipe steaming hot, garnished with the reserved basil and a light sprinkle of lemon zest if you love a citrusy zing. It’s a dish that looks as stunning as it tastes and will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Serve Marry Me Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh basil leaves and a hint of lemon zest elevate the presentation and add fresh, contrasting flavors that brighten the creamy sauce. For a little extra flair, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or even toasted pine nuts bring texture and richness.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables that add crunch and balance to the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is also a fantastic companion for soaking up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with basil leaves carefully arranged on top and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for shine. You can also create individual portions in small ramekins or mini skillets, making dinners feel extra cozy and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the leftover Marry Me Pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or effortless dinners during the week.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze the pasta sauce separately (without the pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Cooking fresh pasta or reheating separately helps maintain the ideal texture.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwave reheating works too, but stirring halfway through helps prevent hot spots and keeps the dish smooth and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for the Marry Me Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully here, feel free to experiment with fettuccine, penne, or even rigatoni. Each shape catches the creamy sauce differently, making the dish your own.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, simply omit any chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead. Additionally, skip the optional chicken or shrimp. The sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan still create a flavorful and satisfying experience.

How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount or leave them out entirely. You can always add a pinch later if you want to build the spice gradually.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. When you’re ready, reheat it gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture and flavor.

What wine pairs well with Marry Me Pasta Recipe?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, slightly tangy sauce beautifully. For red lovers, a light-bodied Chianti adds a nice contrast without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Pasta Recipe is truly a treasure—comforting, quick to make, and guaranteed to make anyone feel special at the dinner table. Whether it becomes your go-to weeknight meal or reserved for romantic evenings, it’s a delicious reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your favorite dishes to share with friends and family.

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