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One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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4 from 6 reviews

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a quick and creamy pasta dish that combines tender ditalini pasta with garlic-infused olive oil, rich butter, heavy cream, and savory parmesan cheese. Cooked entirely in one skillet with chicken broth for added flavor, this recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight meal. Optional toppings like fresh parsley and red pepper flakes add a fresh and spicy kick.

Ingredients

Main 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, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add two tablespoons olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  2. Add Pasta: Sprinkle the dry ditalini pasta evenly over the skillet bottom, about 1 1/2 cups, stirring it with the garlic to coat the pasta in the oil and aromatics.
  3. Pour Broth and Season: Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta, between 2 1/2 to 3 cups. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Simmer Covered: Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the pasta cook covered for 9 to 10 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid and soften.
  5. Check Doneness: Remove the lid and stir the pasta. Taste to check for doneness; some broth will remain but will absorb as it cools.
  6. Add Cream: Drizzle in the 1/3 cup heavy cream and stir into the pasta over low heat for about 1 minute to incorporate it fully.
  7. Finish with Butter and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Add 3-4 tablespoons of salted butter and 1/2 cup parmesan cheese. Stir vigorously until both are melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
  8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and add more salt and pepper if desired. Optionally sprinkle with red pepper flakes for heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on the side.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, though parmesan contains animal rennet.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
  • Adjust the chicken broth quantity depending on your skillet size to ensure pasta is just covered.
  • For a richer dish, add a little extra butter or cheese to taste.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/one-pan-butter-parmesan-pasta-recipe/