Want to wow your loved ones with a dish that’s both tasty and romantic? Marry Me Pasta is all the rage, and it’s easy to see why. It’s creamy, savory, and simple to whip up at home.
Now, you can enjoy this hit dish without going to a fancy restaurant. Just a few ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and a rich sauce are all you need. You’ll be making a Marry Me Pasta recipe that everyone will love – rich, creamy, and totally irresistible.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Learn how to make a delicious Marry Me Pasta at home.
- Discover the key ingredients that make this dish special.
- Follow a simple step-by-step guide to creating a romantic meal.
- Impress your family and friends with a creamy, savory pasta recipe.
- Customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
What is Marry Me Pasta?
The name ‘Marry Me Pasta’ might sound intriguing, but its origins and recipe are even more captivating. This dish is an adaptation of the popular “Marry Me Chicken” concept, transformed into a pasta recipe that’s just as delicious.
The Origin Story
The “Marry Me Chicken” recipe gained popularity on social media platforms. Users shared their experiences of cooking the dish and how it allegedly won over their partners. The name stuck, and soon, variations of the recipe emerged, including the Marry Me Pasta. This pasta version retains the core flavors of the original chicken recipe but substitutes chicken with pasta, making it a satisfying meal for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me Pasta”
The name “Marry Me Pasta” is derived from the dish’s supposedly irresistible charm. The combination of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful ingredients creates a culinary experience that’s hard to resist. Here are some key reasons why it’s called “Marry Me Pasta”:
- Rich and creamy sauce
- Tender and perfectly cooked pasta
- A blend of savory flavors that tantalize the taste buds
You can customize your Marry Me Pasta by incorporating your favorite ingredients and tweaking it to your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Marry Me Pasta
Marry Me Pasta starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need a few key items, which we’ve organized for you.
Pasta Base
The pasta base is penne pasta. It’s great because it holds sauce well. You can pick regular or whole wheat penne. A serving size is about 8 oz.
Creamy Sauce
The creamy sauce is key. It’s made with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and herbs. You’ll also need unsalted butter for cooking. Don’t forget sun-dried tomatoes and garlic for flavor.
Optional Add-ins and Garnishes
For a personal touch, add fresh basil, spinach, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even tofu for extra heartiness. You can also toss in grilled vegetables like those from this blackstone hibachi recipe or sprinkle red pepper flakes for spice.
Ingredient Category | Specific Ingredients |
Pasta Base | Penne Pasta (8 oz) |
Creamy Sauce | Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese, Unsalted Butter, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Garlic |
Optional Add-ins | Fresh Basil, Spinach, Grilled Vegetables, Red Pepper Flakes |
It’s a dish that’s sure to impress, just like other rich and creamy pasta recipes.
Preparation Steps Before Cooking
Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare a few things. This makes cooking more fun and your pasta dish even more flavorful.
Preparing the Vegetables and Herbs
Then, chop the onions, garlic, and other veggies for your dish. Also, chop fresh herbs like basil or parsley. They’re ready to add flavor.
Getting Your Kitchen Workspace Ready
A clean and organized kitchen is essential. Have all your tools, pots, and pans ready. Arrange your ingredients in the order you’ll use them. This makes cooking easier and more fun.
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious Marry Me Pasta that will wow everyone.
Cooking the Perfect Marry Me Pasta
Now that you’ve got your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking Marry Me Pasta. This dish is sure to wow your guests. The secret to a great Marry Me Pasta is following a few simple steps.
Cooking the Pasta to Al Dente
Begin by boiling a big pot of salted water. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 cups of water. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook until it’s al dente. This takes about 7-9 minutes, depending on the brand.
Before draining the spaghetti, save 1 cup of pasta water.
Creating the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté your minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in your heavy cream and let it simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Stir in your grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining All Components
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some pasta water.
Lastly, add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Step | Time | Temperature |
Cooking Pasta | 7-9 minutes | Boiling |
Simmering Sauce | Until thickened | Medium Heat |
Serving Suggestions and Recipe Variations
Make your meal special by trying new ways to serve Marry Me Pasta. You can add side dishes, such as our popular chicken salad chick grape salad recipe, pick the perfect wine, or change the recipe for different diets. We’ve got all the tips you need.
Best Side Dishes to Complement Your Pasta
For a complete meal, pair Marry Me Pasta with sides that match its creamy taste. Great choices include:
- Garlic bread for a classic Italian meal
- Roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy contrast
- Caprese salad (tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil) for a light side. For another refreshing option, try our din tai fung cucumber recipe.
Adding a side that’s not too rich can really improve your meal. Refer to this seasonal produce guide for fresh ingredient ideas.
Side Dish | Description | Preparation Time |
Garlic Bread | Toasted bread with garlic butter | 10 minutes |
Roasted Asparagus | Asparagus roasted with olive oil and seasoning | 15 minutes |
Caprese Salad | Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar | 10 minutes |
Wine and Beverage Pairings
The right drink can make Marry Me Pasta even better. Try Pinot Grigio or Chianti for an Italian touch. Or, if you prefer, sparkling water with lemon or a craft beer can also pair well.
Dietary Modifications
To fit different diets, you can tweak the Marry Me Pasta recipe:
- For added protein, consider tossing in mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Having trouble with Marry Me Pasta? Here are quick fixes:
- If the sauce is too thick, add some pasta water to thin it.
- If the pasta is too soft, add crunchy elements like toasted nuts or breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
You’ve learned how to make Marry Me Pasta, a dish that will wow anyone. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing. It’s great for a weeknight dinner or a special event.
The dish has a special twist with its creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and irresistible.
By following this article, you can make a top-notch Marry Me Pasta at home. The pasta and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce come together for a memorable meal.
So, give this recipe a shot. It’s easy to make and tastes incredible. Marry Me Pasta will quickly become a favorite in your home. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s just for you or for someone special. If you’re in the mood for another comforting dish, try our guide on how to make a slow cooker hamburger casserole.
FAQ
What type of pasta is best for Marry Me Pasta?
The best pasta is short and tubular, like penne or rigatoni. These shapes catch the creamy sauce well.
How do I achieve the perfect creamy sauce for Marry Me Pasta?
For a creamy sauce, mix heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and butter. Simmer it until it thickens, stirring constantly.
Can I make Marry Me Pasta gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Use gluten-free pasta and check the ingredients in your sauce and seasonings.
What are some common issues with cooking Marry Me Pasta, and how can I troubleshoot them?
Issues include overcooking pasta or sauce, or sauce not thickening. Cook pasta al dente and stir constantly when mixing sauce ingredients.
How can I customize Marry Me Pasta to my taste?
Customize it by adding your favorite veggies, using different cheeses, or changing spices and herbs. This way, it suits your taste.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Marry Me Pasta?
Good sides include garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted veggies. They complement the pasta’s rich flavors without overpowering it.
What beverages pair well with Marry Me Pasta?
White wines like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pair well. Or try sparkling water with lemon to cut through the pasta’s richness.
PrintMarry Me Pasta Recipe
Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, this Marry Me Pasta is a romantic and comforting dish made without meat. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions — ready in just 25 minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Total Time: 25 min
- Yield: 6
- Category: Pasta
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 oz gluten-free penne (or regular penne)
- 1½ tbsp sun-dried tomato oil
- 1 tbsp basil olive oil
- 8 oz Baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced or chopped (optional)
- 1 cup firm tofu, cubed and lightly pan-fried (optional)
- 2 cups spinach, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp shallots
- 1 tbsp minced onion
- 2½ tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced
- 2 tbsp gluten-free flour (or all-purpose)
- 1½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ⅓ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dry basil
- Chopped fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- 1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the sun-dried tomato oil.
- 2. Add the sliced mushrooms, zucchini (if using), paprika, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
- 3. While the vegetables cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 4. Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low. Push the sautéed vegetables to the edges of the pan and add the basil olive oil and butter in the center.
- 5. Stir in the minced garlic, shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, minced onion, dry basil, smoked paprika, and more Italian seasoning. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- 6. Sprinkle in the flour and stir until combined into a paste.
- 7. Slowly add the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir well, then add in the diced spinach.
- 8. Let the sauce cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and the sauce begins to thicken.
- 9. Stir in the shredded parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- 10. Add the cooked pasta and tofu (if using) to the skillet. Toss everything well to coat evenly.
- 11. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing is not recommended due to the cream content.
- You can swap or combine the optional tofu and zucchini based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 335 Kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 1018mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 66mg
Keywords: marry me pasta, creamy vegetarian pasta, easy pasta dinner, spinach mushroom pasta