If you’ve been scrolling through social media craving a dish that’s rich, comforting, and downright irresistible, you’ve got to try That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe. This pasta miracle blends tender ditalini with a luxuriously creamy sauce packed full of garlic, butter, and Parmesan, all simmered together to create a flavor bomb that feels both fancy and incredibly cozy. It’s quick, uses simple pantry staples, and every bite tastes like a warm hug — perfect for weeknights when you need a fast but impressive meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface with a wooden background. In the front, there is a wooden cutting board with a wedge of pale yellow cheese and some shredded cheese scattered beside it. Next to the board is a small white bowl holding two cubes of yellow butter. To the left, there is a glass bottle filled with golden olive oil with a round stopper on top. Toward the center back, a blue box of Barilla ditalini pasta stands upright. On the right side, there is a white carton of Swanson chicken broth featuring an image of broth with small pasta in a white bowl. In front of the broth are a small glass of white milk and a dark gray pepper grinder filled with black pepper. There is also a green tube of minced garlic paste placed between the pasta and broth. In the background to the left, fresh green herbs in a bunch add a pop of color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe. Each component, though simple, plays a major role in balancing the flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish so addictive and satisfying.

Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a fruity, smooth base flavor and prevents sticking as you sauté the garlic.
Garlic paste (1 tablespoon): Infuses the dish with powerful garlicky aroma and taste without any chopping hassle.
Ditalini pasta (1¼ cup uncooked): These tiny tubes soak up the sauce beautifully while offering a perfect bite-sized texture.
Chicken broth (2 cups, plus up to 1 cup more if needed): The secret liquid that cooks the pasta and enriches the dish with savory depth.
Salt (¼ teaspoon, plus more to taste): Enhances and balances flavors.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup finely grated): Brings sharp, nutty cheesiness that melts into velvety goodness.
Heavy cream (¼ cup, plus ¼ cup more if desired): Creates the silky, indulgent creaminess that makes this pasta so memorable.
Salted butter (2 tablespoons): Enriches the sauce with luscious smoothness and a subtle salty kick.
Black pepper (to taste): Adds a little warmth and spice to brighten the flavors.
Fresh parsley (minced): Sprinkles freshness and a pop of green to finish the dish beautifully.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of garlic paste and cook until the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to brown. This step unlocks that wonderful garlicky aroma that sets the tone for the entire dish.

Step 2: Toast the Pasta

Add 1¼ cup of uncooked ditalini pasta directly to the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta thoroughly in the garlicky olive oil. Toasting the pasta slightly adds warmth and a subtle nutty flavor — a clever little step that elevates the dish.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Salt

Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, or just enough to cover the pasta, then sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of salt. Keep stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan. The broth will slowly absorb into the pasta, cooking it perfectly while infusing that savory chicken flavor.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese, Cream, and Butter

When most of the broth is absorbed but the pasta is still al dente (about 8 minutes), lower the heat to medium. Add ½ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup of heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Stir gently and continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens into that signature creamy texture.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Taste and add extra salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Finish with a generous sprinkle of minced fresh parsley for color and a touch of fresh herbal brightness. Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest, as it tends to thicken when cooled.

How to Serve That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe

The image shows a close-up of small ring-shaped pasta covered in a creamy pale yellow cheese sauce, with a wooden spoon lifting a portion from the dish. The pasta is sprinkled with small green parsley pieces for color, and you can also see some light-colored grated cheese on top. The pasta's texture looks soft and smooth, and the parsley adds a fresh, leafy texture brightening the dish. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To keep things simple yet stunning, I love topping the pasta with a bit more freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few cracked black pepper twists. A sprinkle of minced fresh parsley adds a lovely verdant note that wakes up the eyes and palate alike. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can add just the right hint of fruity richness.

Side Dishes

This creamy garlic butter ditalini is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or sautéed green beans makes the meal extra special. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf can also be a fantastic companion for soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe in small, shallow bowls for an elegant look. For dinner parties, garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh thyme or basil to upgrade the presentation instantly. Even a light dusting of smoked paprika over the top can add a surprising pop of color and subtle smoky flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the sauce thickens as it cools, so it might need a little loosening up when reheated.

Freezing

This creamy pasta doesn’t freeze as well because the sauce can separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy fresh or store refrigerated rather than freezing.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir constantly to revive the creamy texture without breaking the sauce. Avoid microwaving straight from the fridge to preserve that silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While ditalini is perfect because its shape traps sauce wonderfully, small tubular or short pasta like elbow macaroni, penne, or even mini shells will work beautifully, too.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe calls for chicken broth, so to make it vegetarian, simply swap it out for a vegetable broth with good flavor. Everything else stays the same and the dish remains just as creamy and satisfying.

How can I make That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe vegan?

To veganize this dish, use plant-based butter and cream substitutes, nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternatives, and vegetable broth. The garlic and olive oil base still ensures great flavor.

Why does the sauce sometimes break or separate?

The sauce can separate if it’s overheated or left to sit too long before serving. For best results, eat immediately once the cheese and cream are melted together, and reheat gently if needed.

Can I add protein to That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon bits pair wonderfully with the creamy, garlicky flavors. Add your protein toward the end of cooking or as a topping to keep it tender.

Final Thoughts

That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like it belongs in your regular rotation once you’ve tried it. The creamy, garlicky sauce clinging to tiny pasta shapes delivers comfort and indulgence all in one quick, easy meal. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, I can’t recommend it enough. Give this recipe a whirl and get ready to fall in love with pasta all over again.

That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need