This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it combines creamy flavors with the rich taste of parmesan cheese. With just one pan and 20 minutes, you can whip up a meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. This easy pasta dish is versatile—enjoy it as a main course or pair it with your favorite protein for added heartiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter, cream, and parmesan creates a decadently creamy sauce that’s hard to resist.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required thanks to cooking everything in one pan, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this pasta by adding your favorite protein or veggies, making it suitable for everyone.
- Kid-Friendly: Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor are sure to be a hit with children, encouraging them to enjoy their meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking and provides enough room for the ingredients to combine well.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pasta
- 1 1/2 cups dry ditalini pasta
- 2 1/2 -3 cups chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Sauce
- 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
- Red pepper flakes
How to Make One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium low heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add Pasta
Sprinkle in the dry ditalini pasta, ensuring it covers the bottom of the pan. Stir well with garlic to combine evenly.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta. Add 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover with a lid and reduce heat to simmer. Cook covered for about 9-10 minutes.
Step 4: Check Doneness
Remove the lid and stir the pasta gently. Taste for doneness; some chicken broth should remain but will absorb as the pasta cools.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream
Drizzle in the heavy cream while still simmering. Stir thoroughly for about 1 minute until well mixed.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Cheese
Remove from heat and add in the salted butter along with parmesan cheese. Stir until both melt into a creamy sauce.
Step 7: Season & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for added heat before serving. Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta!
How to Serve One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want a light meal or something heartier, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Grilled Chicken
- This adds a juicy protein element that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
Add Vegetables
- Toss in some sautéed spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and texture.
Serve with Red Pepper Flakes
- For those who enjoy a little heat, red pepper flakes can elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Accompany with Garlic Bread
- A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious butter sauce.
Incorporate a Salad
- A simple mixed green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.
How to Perfect One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
Achieving the best One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is easy with these helpful tips. Follow them to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
Use Quality Ingredients: Freshly grated parmesan cheese and high-quality chicken broth will significantly enhance the flavor.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers to prevent overcooking; it should be al dente.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your pasta before serving; you may want to adjust salt and pepper levels based on personal preference.
Incorporate More Cream: For a richer sauce, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream than the recipe calls for.
Experiment with Proteins: Try adding grilled turkey or beef for different flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishes like herbs and cheese; they can make a big difference in presentation and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
To round out your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta. They offer variety and complement the main dish wonderfully.
Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing enhances the meal’s freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a tasty appetizer that’s easy to prepare.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing bite-sized treat.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with creamy pasta dishes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are comforting and satisfying alongside pasta meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to make a few simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Bold ingredient measurements: Not measuring your ingredients correctly can lead to an unbalanced dish. Always use accurate measurements for pasta, broth, and cheese.
- Bold cooking temperature: Cooking on too high heat can burn the garlic and pasta. Keep the heat at medium-low to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Bold neglecting taste tests: Skipping taste tests can mean missing out on flavor adjustments. Always sample your pasta before serving to ensure it’s seasoned just right.
- Bold using the wrong broth: Using a low-quality or overly salty broth can overpower your dish. Choose a good-quality chicken broth that enhances the flavors of your pasta.
- Bold overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin your dish. Keep an eye on the cooking time; aim for al dente texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
- Place in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
- Make sure to label and date the containers.
Reheating One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta that may help you perfect this delightful dish.
Can I use whole wheat pasta for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
You can substitute whole wheat pasta, but adjust cooking time as it may take longer to cook than regular pasta.
What proteins can I add to this recipe?
You can add cooked chicken, turkey, shrimp, or even vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I make One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta creamy?
Adding heavy cream is key. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.
Can I make One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta without butter?
Yes! You can replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter spread if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Final Thoughts
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that appeals to everyone at the table. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables!
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate solution for a quick, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. This creamy and flavorful dish combines tender ditalini pasta with a rich sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese—all cooked in just one pan! Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, you can easily customize it by adding your choice of protein or vegetables. With minimal cleanup required, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious dinner at the table.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
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)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add dry ditalini pasta, stirring to combine with garlic.
- Pour enough chicken broth to cover the pasta, adding salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to simmer for 9-10 minutes.
- Check pasta doneness; some broth should remain but will absorb as it cools.
- Stir in heavy cream while simmering for about a minute.
- Remove from heat; mix in butter and parmesan until melted into a creamy sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg