Marry Me Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than this Marry Me Pasta Recipe. This creamy, decadent pasta dish combines the heartiness of rotini or casarecce pasta, tender chicken, and a rich, flavorful sauce that will have your loved ones asking for seconds—and maybe even a proposal! Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow, and the results are simply divine.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
– Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cooking time of about 30 minutes, you’ll have a gourmet meal on the table in no time.
– Flavorful Ingredients: The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach adds a burst of flavor and color, making this dish as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
– Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein.

Ingredient List

• 3 cups uncooked rotini pasta or casarecce pasta
• 2 medium-sized chicken breasts (1 pound)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, coarsely chopped
• 4 packed cups baby spinach
• 1/4 cup basil pesto (optional)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley or basil, for serving

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
• Skillet: To cook the chicken and sauce.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure chicken is cooked through.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Make Marry Me Pasta Recipe: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the rotini or casarecce pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, remaining Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the sauce, stirring until the spinach is wilted. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Marry Me Pasta in bowls, drizzling with extra Parmesan cheese and garnishing with chopped parsley or basil. For added flavor, a spoonful of basil pesto can be stirred in before serving.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• Spring: Incorporate fresh asparagus or peas for a seasonal touch.
• Summer: Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a light summer dish.
• Fall: Stir in roasted butternut squash for a cozy fall flavor.
• Winter: Mix in kale or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition and heartiness.

Things That Go Wrong

• Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to monitor the pasta closely to avoid mushiness. Al dente is key!
• Chicken Not Cooked Properly: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Sauce Too Thick: If your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
• Not Enough Flavor: Adjust seasonings to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!

Best Ways to Store

This Marry Me Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just be aware that the texture of the spinach may change slightly upon reheating.

Marry Me Pasta Recipe Q&A

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini and casarecce work great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately, and combine with pasta right before serving.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch for thickening. However, the sauce may be less rich and creamy.

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Final Bite

This Marry Me Pasta Recipe is not just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish, perfect for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and delicious results, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a dish that may just lead to a heartfelt proposal! Enjoy every bite!