One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This one-pan butter parmesan pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. With simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and parmesan, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups dry ditalini pasta
• 2 ½ – 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 3-4 tbsp salted butter
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional toppings: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add the ditalini pasta to the skillet and stir with the garlic to evenly coat the pasta.
3. Step 3: Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta, then add salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 9-10 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the lid and stir. The pasta should be tender, and any excess broth will be absorbed as it cools.
5. Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream while keeping the skillet over low heat. Mix for about a minute, then remove from heat.
6. Step 6: Stir in butter and parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• Try adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for a more robust taste.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, a splash of milk mixed with a little extra butter works as a substitute.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or small penne work well with this recipe.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

A mixture of milk and butter can be used in place of heavy cream. Use ¼ cup milk plus 1 tablespoon melted butter for every ⅓ cup of heavy cream called for.

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 52 reviews

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender ditalini pasta with rich butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Cooked all in one skillet with chicken broth, it’s a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. The addition of heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously creamy, while optional toppings like fresh parsley and red pepper flakes add a fresh and spicy touch.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups dry ditalini pasta
• 2 ½ – 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 3–4 tbsp salted butter
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Toppings

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Sauté the Garlic: Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Toast the Pasta: Add the dry ditalini pasta to the skillet and stir it with the garlic to ensure each piece is evenly coated with oil and garlic flavor.
3. Cook the Pasta: Pour in enough chicken broth to just cover the pasta, about 2 ½ to 3 cups. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 9-10 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
4. Check for Doneness: Remove the lid and stir the pasta. Confirm that the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has mostly absorbed. If there is excess broth, it will continue to absorb as the pasta cools.
5. Add Cream & Butter: Keep the skillet on low heat and stir in ⅓ cup heavy cream. Mix for about one minute, allowing the cream to warm and integrate with the pasta.
6. Incorporate Cheese: Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of salted butter and ½ cup parmesan cheese. Stir until the butter and cheese melt fully and create a creamy sauce coating the pasta.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

• If you want a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a small splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts best and enhances the flavor more than pre-grated cheese.
• Use salted butter to balance the seasoning but adjust salt accordingly if using unsalted butter.

Keywords: butter parmesan pasta, one-pan pasta, creamy pasta recipe, easy dinner, garlic pasta, skillet pasta