One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a quick and comforting meal that combines creamy, cheesy flavors with tender pasta. Made in just one skillet, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing and delicious with minimal cleanup.

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, heat the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Step 2: Add the ditalini pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the garlic and oil.
3. Step 3: Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta completely. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 9 to 10 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the lid and stir the pasta. The pasta should be tender, and any excess broth will be mostly absorbed as it cools.
5. Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream while keeping the skillet over low heat. Mix gently for about a minute to combine.
6. Step 6: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the butter and parmesan cheese until everything is melted and well combined.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
• If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth or cream to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta like elbow macaroni or small shells can work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the pasta type.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter, and use a plant-based parmesan substitute if desired.

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 89 reviews

A creamy, comforting one-pan butter parmesan pasta that’s quick and easy to prepare. This recipe features tender ditalini pasta cooked directly in chicken broth and finished with rich butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese for a deliciously cheesy sauce. Ideal for a simple weeknight dinner, it’s garnished with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

• Author: Mila
• 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

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary 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. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant to release the garlic’s flavors without burning.
2. Toast the Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the skillet and stir it together with the garlic and olive oil, coating the pasta evenly and giving it a slight toasty flavor.
3. Cook the Pasta: Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta completely, then add salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 9 to 10 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
4. Check for Doneness: Remove the lid and stir the pasta; it should be tender yet slightly firm to the bite, and any excess broth will be mostly absorbed as it cools, creating a creamy texture.
5. Add Cream & Butter: While maintaining low heat on the skillet, stir in the heavy cream and cook for about one minute to blend the creaminess into the pasta evenly. Then remove from heat.
6. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the salted butter and parmesan cheese until they are fully melted and combined, enriching the sauce with buttery and cheesy flavor.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added brightness and a little kick.

Notes

• Use salted butter as indicated to balance seasoning; reduce added salt if using unsalted butter.
• If preferred, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Adjust the amount of chicken broth depending on how saucy you want the pasta.
• For a richer flavor, freshly grate the parmesan cheese rather than using pre-grated.
• This dish is best served immediately as it thickens upon standing.

Keywords: one-pan pasta, butter parmesan pasta, creamy pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy dinner, Italian pasta, ditalini pasta