One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Using just a few ingredients and one skillet, you get a rich and comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 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 salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional toppings: fresh parsley and red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Step 2: Add the pasta, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom of the pan. Stir to combine with the garlic.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth, enough to cover the pasta, then add salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce to a simmer. Let it cook covered for 9-10 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the lid and stir the pasta. Check for doneness; some broth may remain but will absorb as it cools.
5. Step 5: Drizzle in the heavy cream and stir over the simmering heat for about 1 minute.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and add butter and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with parsley if using and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• Use any small pasta shape you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni or small shells.
• Add cooked vegetables like spinach or peas at the end for extra nutrition and color.
• Top with grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce as 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 shapes like macaroni, shells, or penne will work well in this recipe.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 131 reviews

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a creamy and comforting dish made with ditalini pasta cooked directly in chicken broth, enriched with butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect quick and easy meal featuring rich flavors and a velvety texture, topped optionally with fresh parsley and a touch of red pepper flakes for heat.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups dry ditalini pasta
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Wet Ingredients

• 2 1/2 – 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 3–4 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh Ingredients

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Optional Toppings

• Fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, taking care not to burn it.
2. Add Pasta: Sprinkle in 1 1/2 cups of ditalini pasta, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom of the pan. Stir the pasta together with the garlic to combine and lightly toast it.
3. Add Broth and Season: Pour in 2 1/2 to 3 cups of chicken broth, just enough to cover the pasta. Season with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the pasta cook covered for about 9-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Check Doneness and Stir: Remove the lid and stir the pasta, tasting to check for doneness. Some broth will remain at the bottom but will be absorbed as the pasta cools.
6. Add Cream: Drizzle in 1/3 cup of heavy cream and stir it into the pasta over the simmering stove for about 1 minute to combine and thicken.
7. Finish with Butter and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and add 3-4 tablespoons of salted butter and 1/2 cup parmesan cheese. Stir until both the butter and cheese have melted fully into a creamy sauce.
8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, sprinkle red pepper flakes for some heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• Use ditalini pasta or any small pasta shape that cooks evenly in a skillet.
• Adjust chicken broth quantity depending on pasta absorption and desired creaminess.
• Don’t overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Adding parmesan at the end helps retain its flavor and melt perfectly into the sauce.
• The pasta will thicken as it cools, so serve immediately for best texture.

Keywords: One-Pan Pasta, Butter Parmesan Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Quick Pasta Recipe, Easy Dinner