There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s tossed with creamy butter and a generous sprinkle of parmesan. This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta has become one of my go-to dishes when I need a quick, satisfying meal without much fuss. Do you ever find yourself wondering what to cook on a busy weeknight? I know I do, and that’s where this beauty shines. Creamy, savory, and ridiculously easy to whip up, it’s a dish that embraces both simplicity and flavor.
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine a pasta dish that doesn’t just fill the belly but warms the soul. That’s exactly what this One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta delivers. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a casual gathering, it’s versatile and truly delightful. The creamy sauce hugs the pasta perfectly, creating a comforting hug on a plate.
“This pasta is the ultimate comfort food! I made it for my family, and everyone went back for seconds—definitely adding it to our regular rotation!”
Why is this dish a must-have? For one, it’s incredibly budget-friendly; you can make it with just a few pantry staples. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic family meal. Whether you’re rushing home after work or prepping a cozy dinner on a chill evening, this one-pan wonder has your back.
Preparing One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
This dish is as easy as it sounds—one pan, minimal prep, and no need to boil the water separately! The method is straightforward, featuring sautéed garlic that adds depth of flavor, followed by toasting the pasta to make it extra special. You’ll quickly combine all the ingredients in a single skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
What you’ll need
- 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
Feel free to swap the ditalini for another small pasta shape if you prefer. If you find yourself in need of a lighter dish, consider a low-fat cream or cheese. But honestly, the richness of this recipe sings beautifully with the original ingredients!
Step-by-step instructions
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, drizzle the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until that heavenly aroma fills your kitchen.
Toast the Pasta: Toss in the ditalini pasta and stir it into the garlic, allowing it to coat in that fragrant oil. This step is key to elevating the flavor.
Cook the Pasta: Pour in enough chicken broth to just cover the pasta, then add salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil, cover, and reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 9-10 minutes.
Check for Doneness: Remove the lid and give it a stir. The pasta should be tender, and you might notice that most of the broth has been absorbed.
Add Cream & Butter: Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and watch as it transforms into a luscious sauce. Mix for a minute before removing from heat.
Incorporate Cheese: Sprinkle in the butter and parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s all melted and beautifully combined.
Serve & Enjoy: Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and red pepper flakes on top will make it irresistible!
Best ways to enjoy it
This comforting dish shines on its own but pairing it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread elevates the meal. Think fresh greens drizzled with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice, or crunchy bread to mop up that creamy sauce. You could also turn it into a fantastic whole dinner by adding grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables right into the pasta!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to dive in again, reheating is simple. Just pop the pasta back into the skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream over low heat until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can; it can sometimes make the pasta gummy. Safety tip: always cool the pasta before storing to ensure freshness.
Extra advice
Keep your garlic on low heat to avoid burning—burnt garlic can quickly turn a lovely dish into something bitter. Also, if you want a little kick, mixing in some red pepper flakes with the parmesan can deepen the flavor profile beautifully. This dish is forgiving, so if you prefer it creamier, don’t hesitate to add in a bit more cream or cheese!
Creative twists
Once you’ve mastered this basic recipe, the world is your oyster—or rather, your pasta bowl. You can introduce seasonal vegetables such as spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a fresh touch. Trying a different cheese like pecorino or gouda can bring a unique twist. Feeling adventurous? Swap in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or toss in some crispy bacon for those smoky notes.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 20-25 minutes. It’s a weeknight dream!Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and opt for nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor.Is this dish freezer-friendly?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Aim to eat frozen leftovers within 2-3 months for best quality.
This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta has a way of turning simple ingredients into a dish that’s truly memorable. With ease and satisfaction wrapped in every bite, it’s bound to become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, drizzle the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the ditalini pasta and stir it to coat in the garlic oil.
- Pour enough chicken broth to cover the pasta, then add salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to simmer. Cook for about 9-10 minutes.
- Remove the lid and stir to check for doneness. The pasta should be tender and most of the broth absorbed.
- Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and mix for a minute before removing from heat.
- Sprinkle in the butter and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
- Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed. Top with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes.