Marry Me Pasta has taken the internet by storm, and for a good reason! This creamy, dreamy tomato pasta dish is said to be so delicious it’s inspired proposals – hence the catchy name. It’s a simple recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal. But with its rich flavors and touch of elegance, Marry Me Pasta is also special enough for a date night or even a romantic dinner at home. For another quick and easy meal, check out this Garlic Shrimp recipe.
Why this Marry Me Pasta is Special
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious—the perfect combination for any occasion!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this magical pasta dish:
Produce
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Pantry Staples
- 1 pound dried pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Dairy & Protein
- 1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can be substituted)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet (at least 12 inches)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Colander
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your own Marry Me Pasta:
Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. A good rule of thumb is to use about a tablespoon of salt per gallon of water. This seasons the pasta beautifully. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. It should be firm but not crunchy. Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help create a luscious, creamy sauce.
Preparing the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. If you enjoy cooking with garlic, you might like these Milk Street Recipes.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. For more detailed information on pasta, visit Healthline’s guide on pasta.
Combining and Serving
Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best Marry Me Pasta and customize it to your liking: Looking for another flavorful dish? Try this Beef Back Ribs recipe.
Making it Spicy
If you like a little heat, you can easily add some spice to this dish. Red pepper flakes, as mentioned in the ingredient list, are a great option. Start with ¼ teaspoon and add more to taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can also kick things up a notch. For a milder heat, try adding a pinch of paprika.
Adding Vegetables
This pasta is a great base for adding your favorite vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers are all delicious additions. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the tomatoes. Other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes would also work well. For some other great pairings, explore our guide on what to eat with everything bagel dip.
Protein Options
To make this a heartier meal, consider adding some protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage are all excellent choices. Cook the protein separately and add it to the pasta along with the sauce. You could also use cooked ground beef or crumbled bacon for a different flavor profile.
Making it Vegetarian/Vegan
This recipe can easily be adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and use regular Parmesan cheese. For a vegan version, use plant-based heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk, and replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add a tablespoon of vegan butter to the sauce for extra richness. Wondering about measurements? See our guide on teaspoon measurements.
FAQ
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Marry Me Pasta:
Why is it called “marry me pasta”?
The exact origin of the name is uncertain, but it’s believed to be anecdotal. The story goes that this pasta is so delicious, it’s led to marriage proposals! It’s easy to imagine, given the rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying nature of the dish.
What pasta is served at weddings?
Pasta is a popular choice for wedding receptions, often served as a first course or a side dish. Common choices include penne, farfalle (bowtie pasta), and tortellini, usually served with a creamy sauce or in a baked dish. Ultimately, the type of pasta served depends on the couple’s preferences and regional traditions. For some pasta inspiration, take a look at these healthy pasta recipes.
Why is it called “marry me chicken”?
Similar to Marry Me Pasta, “Marry Me Chicken” is a dish with a similarly romantic name, suggesting it’s so good it could inspire a proposal. It features pan-seared chicken in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce. While both dishes share a creamy, romantic appeal, the key difference lies in the protein and the use of sun-dried tomatoes in the chicken dish.
What is Gigi Hadid’s pasta called?
Gigi Hadid’s viral pasta recipe is known as “spicy vodka pasta.” It features a creamy, tomato-based sauce with a kick of vodka and red pepper flakes. While both Gigi’s pasta and Marry Me Pasta are creamy and tomato-based, they have distinct flavor profiles, with the vodka and spice being key differentiators in Hadid’s version.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
Marry Me Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Garlic bread is a classic choice, perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, provide a healthy and flavorful complement.
Storage Advice
Leftover Marry Me Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency. While you can freeze Marry Me Pasta, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, be aware the quality might change slightly.
Conclusion
Marry Me Pasta is more than just hype; it’s a truly delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that deserves a spot in your regular rotation. The creamy tomato sauce, the touch of spice, and the satisfyingly simple preparation make it a winner for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the magic for yourself. Let me know what you think in the comments below! I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as my family does.
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