Marry Me Pasta
Marry Me Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that ignites romance and comfort in every bite. This luscious dish features creamy light sauce enriched with fresh Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil, making it a perfect centerpiece for any intimate dinner or cozy family meal. Crafted with love, it’s said that this pasta has the power to make anyone fall in love anew, earning its dreamy name. Perfect for date nights, anniversaries, or simply when you want to impress your loved ones, each forkful brings a little enchantment to your evening.
What sets this recipe apart is its simple yet indulgent flavor profile that combines aromatic garlic, spicy red pepper flakes, and the rich creaminess of the sauce. Its ease of preparation also means you can whip it up even on busy weeknights without sacrificing quality or taste. With Marry Me Pasta on your table, expect satisfied sighs and requests for seconds. Your friends and family will keep coming back for more, proving that love and good food truly do go hand in hand.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 1 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!)
- 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
Prepare your ingredients to make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.
Directions
Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Paste: Measure out 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes. Chop them as finely as you can, then add to a blending device with 1 tablespoon of the oil from the jar. Pulse a few times, scraping the sides of the container between pulses, until you reach a coarse paste.
Cook the Noodles: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the noodles. Carefully reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water to use later, then strain the noodles and set them aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large non-stick pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the grated garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, dried thyme, and chicken bouillon powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Cream: Pour in the light cream and heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to maintain a gentle simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
Incorporate Flavor: Add the fresh grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh basil. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency, and skim off any excess oil that may float on top if desired.
Combine with Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the sauce, stirring thoroughly to ensure they are well coated. Turn off the heat and serve your Marry Me Pasta, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Variations
Ingredient Substitutions: For a lighter option, substitute the light cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. You can also use pre-made pesto instead of fresh basil for a different flavor twist.
Optional Variations: Consider adding cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for additional protein. A handful of spinach can also be stirred in for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to bring back its creamy texture.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Enjoy a delicious plate of Marry Me Pasta that’s sure to impress!