Picture this: the sound of bubbling butter and the soft aroma of melting parmesan tickling your senses. It’s the enchantment of a cozy meal, and it’s just a click away with ONE-PAN BUTTER PARMESAN PASTA. This dish has taken over the internet on TikTok and Pinterest, delighting home cooks looking for quick and comforting dinners!
This recipe is all about simplicity. A handful of ingredientspasta, butter, and parmesancombine to create a creamy, dreamy experience. It’s like your grandma’s version, but faster and way less fuss. Full details in the blog!
This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a viral one-pan pasta loved for its creamy, buttery sauce and rich parmesan flavor. It’s a quick butter parmesan pasta recipe perfect for a satisfying 20-minute pasta dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
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 tsp each salt and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
optional toppings fresh parsley and red pepper flakes
Instructions
Warm two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat and cook the garlic until it releases its aroma, about 30 seconds.
Add the pasta in a layer to cover the pan bottom and stir with the garlic to coat evenly.
Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta along with salt and pepper, then bring to a boil.
Once boiling, cover the skillet, lower the heat to a simmer, and let cook for 9 to 10 minutes.
Uncover and stir the pasta, checking for tenderness while some broth remains on the pan bottom.
Stir in the heavy cream and continue mixing over simmering heat for about one minute.
Remove from heat and blend in butter and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Adjust seasoning if needed and add red pepper flakes for a spicy touch if you like.
Notes
You can substitute the ditalini pasta with other small shapes like Orecchiette, Pastina, Orzo, Small Elbows, Small Shells, or Acini de Pepe
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Calories:450 kcal
Sugar:2 g
Sodium:800 mg
Fat:22 g
Saturated Fat:12 g
Unsaturated Fat:6 g
Trans Fat:0 g
Carbohydrates:45 g
Fiber:3 g
Protein:15 g
Cholesterol:60 mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve just stumbled upon a gem! This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is not just delicious; it’s all about ease. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in 20 minutes flat. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
Speedy Meal: Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to dine without the fuss.
Cozy Flavor: The creamy parmesan sauce is like a hug in a bowl, bringing nostalgic vibes to your table.
Family Approved: Kids love it, adults crave itmaking it a solid family favorite that pleases everyone.
Key Ingredients & Tools
To create this comforting bowl, gather these ingredients from your pantry and fridge. The best part? You likely have most of these in stock already!
Ditalini Pasta: A small pasta shape that soaks up all that creamy goodness.
Chicken Broth: The base of our flavor; if you’re out, you can use water in a pinch, but it won’t be as rich.
Garlic: Freshly minced makes all the difference with its fragrant aroma.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes our dish creamy and dreamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Use the real stuffgrated or shreddedfor that unforgettable flavor.
As for tools, a large skillet is your best friend here. Only one pan means less mess to clean up, and who doesn’t love that?
Simple Steps to Make It
This dish is as straightforward as it gets! Follow these easy steps to a delightful home-cooked meal. Trust me; you’ll be a pro in no time!
Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrantdon’t let it burn!
Next, sprinkle in the ditalini pasta, making sure it evenly covers the bottom of the pan. Give it a little stir with the garlic.
Now, pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta and season with salt and pepper. Bring it all to a boil! Once boiling, cover with a lid, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 9-10 minutes.
Remove the lid and taste a piece of pasta to check for doneness. Stir it a bit; the broth will thicken as it cools.
Drizzle in the heavy cream, stirring continuously over a simmer for about a minute until well combined.
Finally, take it off the heat and mix in the butter and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste!
Pro Tips & Variations
Ready to personalize this dish to fit your family’s taste? Here are some fun twists and tricks to elevate your meal:
Herbs & Spices: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes on top for a little kick.
Substitutions: If you don’t have ditalini, feel free to use small elbows, or even orzo! Play around with what you have.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies like spinach to make it heartierperfect for stretching lunch leftovers too!
Tip
Detail
Timing
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for that busy night!
Swaps
Use small shell pasta or any small shape you have on hand.
Add-Ons
Optional toppings like crispy bacon or oven-roasted vegetables can add great flavor.
How to Serve & Store
This creamy pasta is a delight served warm right from the stove! However, if you have leftovers (which is rare but happens), here are some ideas:
Storage: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It can get a little thick, so don’t worry if it seems to set more in the fridge.
Reheat: Just add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to revive that creamy texture!
Pairings: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to balance the meal perfectlyyum!
Expert Says
This one-pan butter parmesan pasta is not only simple but also showcases the power of emulsification. The butter and starch from the pasta create a creamy sauce that clings to each noodle, maximizing flavor and reducing the need for heavy creams, making it a lighter yet satisfying option for any meal.
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The Trials of One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
After several attempts at perfecting One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, I can finally say it was worth the chaos. I once added way too much salt and ended up with a cheesy swimming pool instead of dinner! Each experiment brought me closer to that creamy, indulgent bite I was craving, and now it’s a hit at our family table.
FAQs ( One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta )
What is One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
This dish combines pasta, butter, and Parmesan cheese into a creamy, delicious meal made in just one pan. It’s a wonderfully simple recipe that yields rich flavors in around 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting pasta is a family favorite.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This meal can be prepared in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for a quick dinner. By using just one pan, you save time on both cooking and cleanup. You’ll enjoy a tasty dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
What pasta works best for this dish?
For this creamy Parmesan pasta, short shapes like penne or rotini work best as they hold onto the sauce well. You can also use spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer a longer noodle. Just ensure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any meat ingredients. The butter and cheese will still provide rich flavor, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal. It’s a great option for anyone looking for plant-based dishes.
What to serve with Butter Parmesan Pasta?
This stir-fry pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve garlic bread on the side for some extra indulgence. It makes a delightful combination that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Conclusion
In just 20 minutes, you’ll create a dish that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of melting parmesan and golden butter. This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is your secret weapon for quick weeknight dinners, delivering a comforting texture that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. You’ll love how it turns outsilky, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Looking to mix things up? Try adding a dash of lemon zest for brightness or toss in your favorite veggies for some color. And if you have leftovers, a splash of chicken broth while reheating works wondersit’s like magic for keeping that creamy goodness! A little trick I picked up from my aunt’s kitchen, and trust me, it makes all the difference.
I’d love to see your versions of this cozy dish! Did you grow up with something similar in your family? Share your photos or stories in the comments! And don’t forget to save and share this recipe with your loved ones; after all, comfort food is best enjoyed together. Happy cooking!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
