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Creamy Ditalini Pasta

This Creamy Ditalini Pasta is a rich and comforting dinner made with tender ditalini pasta, savory Italian sausage, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The creamy sauce coats every bite of pasta for an easy, satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a delicious Italian-inspired dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • - 12 ounces ditalini pasta
  • - 1 pound Italian sausage Beef
  • - 2 cloves garlic minced
  • - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • - 1 cup heavy cream
  • - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • - ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • - 2 tablespoons olive oil if needed
  • - ½ teaspoon salt
  • - ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, optional

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the Italian sausage.
  5. Cook the sausage, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked.
  6. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  7. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
  9. Let the cream gently simmer for a few minutes.
  10. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  11. Add the cooked ditalini pasta and toss until evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  12. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick.
  13. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  14. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  15. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

- Cook the ditalini just until al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Reserve pasta water before draining because the starchy water helps create a smooth sauce.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Use mild Italian sausage for a milder dish or spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
- Add fresh spinach, mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce.