Marry Me Pasta

Marry Me Pasta

4 - 6
This marry me pasta recipe is the easiest pasta we've ever made, but somehow one of the best. It's perfect to make on Valentine's Day.

Ingredients

  • Kosher salt
  • 1 lb. rigatoni
  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic

    finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 c. chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • 3/4 c. heavy cream
  • 3/4 c. low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 c. finely grated Parmesan

    plus more for serving

  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Torn fresh basil

    for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain. 

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add garlic, thyme, and red pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add tomatoes, then slowly pour in cream and broth. Bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan and cook, stirring, until cheese is melted and sauce is starting to thicken, about 5 minutes; season with salt and black pepper.

  3. 3

    Add pasta and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water and stir to coat. Cook, stirring frequently and adding more pasta water as needed, until sauce is glossy and fully coats pasta, about 2 minutes more.

  4. 4

    Divide pasta among bowls. Top with Parmesan and basil.

Marry Me Pasta

Marry Me Pasta

30 min4 - 6

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About this Recipe

Craving a truly exceptional pasta dish that feels gourmet but comes together in just 30 minutes? This Marry Me Pasta recipe delivers on its promise, offering a deeply satisfying meal that's as easy to prepare as it is delicious. It’s the perfect choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner or any evening when you want something special without the fuss.

Why This Marry Me Pasta Works

This isn't just another pasta dish; it’s an experience. The magic lies in how simple ingredients combine to create a luxurious, rich sauce that clings perfectly to every rigatoni noodle. You'll love how the savory notes of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes are beautifully balanced by the creamy texture, making this one of the best and easiest pasta recipes you'll ever make.

What truly sets this Marry Me Pasta apart is its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each forkful offers a delightful mix of chewy rigatoni, a velvety sauce, and aromatic fresh thyme. The touch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth that elevates the entire dish, inviting you to savor every bite. It’s a testament to how humble pantry staples can transform into something truly extraordinary.

Customization & Variations

One of the best parts about Marry Me Pasta is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to your taste or what you have on hand:

  • Swap the pasta: While rigatoni is excellent for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to use penne or orecchiette if you prefer.
  • Herb power: No fresh thyme? Dried thyme works, or try fresh oregano or rosemary for a different aromatic note.
  • Make it vegetarian: If using chicken broth, swap it for a low-sodium vegetable broth to keep this dish fully vegetarian.

Serve this elegant Marry Me Pasta as the star of a cozy dinner for two or as a impressive, yet effortless, meal for a small gathering. A garnish of extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil brightens the presentation and adds another layer of fresh flavor, making it feel truly celebratory.

Frequently Asked Questions