One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that the whole family will love, then this One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is just what you need. It’s creamy, rich, and comes together in only 20 minutes! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even the kids can help out!

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. You can enjoy it on its own or add your favorite protein for an extra boost. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, both kids and adults will be asking for seconds.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and less time spent washing dishes!
• Customizable: Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The buttery parmesan sauce is pure heaven on pasta!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what makes this One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta so special:

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it based on what you have at home or what flavors you’re craving. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even some sautéed mushrooms for a hearty twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking to give your pasta a little kick.
• Choose different pasta shapes: While ditalini works beautifully, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand!

How to Make One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, drizzle in some olive oil and toss in minced garlic. Sautéing the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant adds a lovely depth of flavor that forms the base of our sauce.

Step 2: Toast the Pasta

Next, add the dry ditalini pasta into the skillet. Stirring it with the garlic not only coats the pasta but also helps enhance its flavor as it cooks.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour enough chicken broth into the skillet to cover the pasta completely. Season with salt and pepper before bringing everything to a boil. Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce heat to simmer for about 9-10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the pasta to absorb all those delicious flavors!

Step 4: Check for Doneness

After about ten minutes, remove the lid and stir. You want your pasta to be tender but still have a bit of bite—al dente! Any excess broth will be absorbed as it cools.

Step 5: Add Cream & Butter

Now it’s time to stir in that luscious heavy cream while keeping your skillet over low heat. Mixing this in for about a minute allows all those creamy goodness elements to blend beautifully before removing from heat.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Stir in salted butter and parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined. This step transforms your dish into that comforting, cheesy masterpiece we all crave!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Finally, taste your dish and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle on some red pepper flakes if you like an extra kick! Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Cooking can be a breeze, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan can elevate the flavors of your dish significantly, making it taste gourmet without extra effort.
• Adjust Broth Amount: The amount of broth required may vary depending on your stove and skillet size. Start with 2 ½ cups and add more if needed to achieve the desired creaminess.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks; overcooked pasta can become mushy. Aim for al dente texture for the best results.
• Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds exciting flavors.
• Save Some Pasta Water: If you want a silkier sauce, reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. Adding a splash can help adjust the consistency without losing flavor.

How to Serve One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Presenting your dish is just as important as preparing it! With a little flair, this creamy pasta can be transformed into an eye-catching meal that delights everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, complementing the richness of the sauce beautifully.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkling red pepper flakes right before serving brings an exciting heat to each bite.
• Extra Parmesan: A light dusting of additional parmesan cheese will make your dish look indulgent and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy pasta, allowing you to scoop up every last bit of sauce!
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots offer color and nutrients while enhancing the meal’s flavor profile.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also adds vibrant color and texture that rounds out your dinner nicely.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create a delightful dining experience filled with warmth and flavor. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is not only a delight to whip up, but it also makes for excellent meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy the creamy goodness throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

Can I use a different type of pasta for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storing and reheating instructions provided above.

What can I add to One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta for extra protein?

You can easily incorporate grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even roasted vegetables. Choose your favorite protein source to enhance this delightful dish!

How do I make One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat additions. It will still be incredibly flavorful!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo after a long day, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!