Description
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impressing friends at gatherings. This recipe combines the rich flavors of butter, cream, and parmesan cheese into a comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp, while minimal cleanup is ensured thanks to the one-pan cooking method. Whether served as a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering main course, this pasta dish shines every time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups dry ditalini pasta
- 2 1/2 – 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 3–4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1/2 teaspoon each: salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the dry ditalini pasta, stirring to combine with garlic.
- Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta completely. Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a boil.
- Cover and reduce heat to simmer for about 9–10 minutes, until pasta is tender.
- Uncover, stir gently, and taste for doneness. Some broth should remain.
- Drizzle in heavy cream while keeping the skillet on simmer; mix well for about one minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and parmesan until melted into the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot with optional toppings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg