Did you know that one of the simplest comfort foods can come together in just 20 minutes? As someone who often craves a creamy pasta dish after a hectic day, I'm thrilled to share my Easy One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta recipe with you. This delightful dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings the family together at the dinner table.
With just a single pan needed, cleanup is a breeze—a definite perk for busy weeknights! Plus, it offers the flexibility to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables, making it a family-friendly meal that can adapt to everyone's preferences. Imagine the joy of serving a rich, buttery pasta infused with fresh garlic and aromatic parmesan, all while knowing you’ve kept it quick and effortless.
So, are you ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of mouthwatering aromas and smiles? Stick around, because this pasta dish is about to become a beloved staple in your home!
Why is One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just one pan, this recipe minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Quick cooking: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice when time is tight.
Versatile options: Feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies, making it a great fit for any palate.
Comforting flavors: The rich combination of butter, heavy cream, and parmesan creates an irresistible, creamy sauce that everyone will adore.
Elevate your dinner routine further by pairing it with a side of air-fryer garlic parmesan potatoes for a complete meal!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re serving the family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Ingredients
• For the Base
- Ditalini Pasta – A small shape that cooks quickly and holds the sauce well.
- Chicken Broth – Adds a savory depth; low-sodium is great for controlling saltiness.
• For the Flavor
- Garlic – Freshly minced for a bold, aromatic touch that enhances the dish.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing garlic; provides a lovely flavor to the overall dish.
- Salted Butter – Brings richness and a smooth texture to the pasta.
• For the Creamy Sauce
- Heavy Cream – Essential for creating that indulgent, creamy consistency.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for an authentic, rich flavor in your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.
• For Seasoning
- Salt & Pepper – Basic yet crucial for amplifying the dish's flavors; adjust as desired.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add a kick of heat for those who like a bit of spice.
• For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley (optional) – Brightens up the dish with color and a touch of freshness upon serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
Step 1
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil along with the freshly minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be cautious not to let it burn as that can impart a bitter flavor. This step lays a flavorful foundation for your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.
Step 2
Once the garlic is aromatic, add approximately 1 ½ cups of ditalini pasta to the skillet. Give it a good stir to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the garlicky oil. This helps infuse the pasta with that delicious flavor as it cooks. The small shape of the ditalini ensures even cooking, which is essential for a perfect One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.
Step 3
Next, pour enough chicken broth into the skillet to just cover the pasta. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste, then increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, allowing the pasta to simmer for about 9-10 minutes. You'll want the pasta to absorb the broth and become tender, so check for doneness as the time nears.
Step 4
After the simmering time, remove the lid and gently stir the pasta. Some broth will still remain, but that's okay as it helps create a creamy sauce. If the pasta is not fully cooked, cover and let it sit for an additional minute or two. At this point, the pasta should be al dente, offering a slight bite, which is ideal for your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.
Step 5
Lower the heat and stir in about a cup of heavy cream, mixing it in well. Allow the mixture to heat through for about a minute, stirring gently to combine everything. The cream will add a rich and luxurious texture to your dish. Once fully integrated, you'll notice the pasta absorbing the cream's velvety goodness, creating the perfect base for the next step.
Step 6
Finally, mix in some salted butter along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the cheese is fully incorporated into the pasta. This step is crucial, as it's what makes your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta undeniably creamy and indulgent. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, and sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you desire a touch of heat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop garlic and measure out the pasta, broth, and cheese up to 24 hours in advance to save precious time during dinner prep. Additionally, consider cooking the pasta partially (al dente) to forgo the lengthy simmering later; just refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish your dish, simply sauté the garlic, add the broth, and stir in the prepped ingredients, adjusting the cooking time slightly since the pasta is already partially cooked. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting dish on the table in no time!
What to Serve with One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy dish with delightful sides that complement its richness perfectly.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is irresistible and a fantastic way to soak up the sumptuous sauce.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast, with the tangy dressing cutting through the creamy pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or zucchini add a touch of sweetness and a hearty texture, enhancing the meal's vibrant colors and flavors.
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Steamed Broccoli: The tender crunch of steamed broccoli not only adds nutritional value but also balances out the dish’s richness beautifully.
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Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine, like Pinot Noir, pairs wonderfully, enhancing the overall dining experience with its fruit-forward notes.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Lighten things up at the end of the meal with a refreshing fruit salad; the sweetness complements the savory pasta perfectly.
Indulging in these pairings will transform dinnertime into a delightful occasion everyone will look forward to!
Storage Tips for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to regain creaminess and prevent drying out.
Airtight: Make sure containers are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta stays delicious for your next meal!
Expert Tips for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
• Perfect Pasta Shape: Use smaller pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo for even cooking—larger shapes may not absorb sauce well.
• Garlic Timing: Sauté garlic until fragrant, but don’t let it brown too much to avoid bitterness.
• Broth Check: Keep an eye on the broth level while simmering; too much or too little can affect the creaminess of your sauce.
• Cream for Richness: Stir in the heavy cream slowly to incorporate it evenly—this helps achieve that luxurious texture everyone loves.
• Fresh Parmesan: Always opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese; it melts beautifully and gives your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta the richest flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your pasta after adding cream and cheese; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your palate.
Variations & Substitutions for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta
Feel free to get creative with your pasta dish; the possibilities are endless!
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Protein Boost: Add cooked rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for an extra punch of protein and heartiness. It's a great way to make the meal more fulfilling.
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Vegetable Variety: Toss in vibrant veggies like peas, broccoli, or bell peppers to enhance both flavor and nutrients. They'll bring extra color and crunch to your dish!
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Broth Swap: Replace chicken broth with bone broth for a richer flavor that adds depth to the dish. This subtle change can elevate the umami experience.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative that caters to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Everyone can enjoy it!
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Spice it Up: Add chili oil or more red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat—perfect for those who crave a little spice in their life.
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Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as asiago or pecorino for a unique flavor twist that complements the buttery richness beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Consider fresh basil, thyme, or chives instead of parsley to create a whole new taste profile. The aromatic herbs will add a delightful freshness.
One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
I recommend using smaller pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo. These shapes cook quickly and hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Larger pasta shapes may not absorb the sauce as well, resulting in a less flavorful dish.
How should I store leftovers from the One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh and flavorful, it's best to consume them within this timeframe. I often pop mine in the fridge right after dinner to maintain that deliciousness!
Can I freeze One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of this pasta in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
What if my pasta turns out too dry?
No worries! If you find your pasta a bit dry after cooking, try adding a little more broth or cream while reheating. This will help bring back that silky, indulgent sauce. Always taste and adjust as needed—no one wants a dry pasta!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta. Additionally, if you have allergies to dairy, you can try substituting the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Indulgent One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups ditalini pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic freshly minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
- to taste salt & pepper
- to taste red pepper flakes optional
- to taste fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil along with the freshly minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
- Once the garlic is aromatic, add approximately 1 ½ cups of ditalini pasta to the skillet. Give it a good stir to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the garlicky oil.
- Next, pour enough chicken broth into the skillet to just cover the pasta. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste, then increase the heat to bring it to a boil.
- After the simmering time, remove the lid and gently stir the pasta. Some broth will still remain; if the pasta is not fully cooked, cover and let it sit for an additional minute or two.
- Lower the heat and stir in about a cup of heavy cream, mixing it in well. Allow the mixture to heat through for about a minute, stirring gently.
- Finally, mix in some salted butter along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the cheese is fully incorporated into the pasta.
Notes
- Perfect Pasta Shape: Use smaller pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo for even cooking—larger shapes may not absorb sauce well.
- Garlic Timing: Sauté garlic until fragrant, but don’t let it brown too much to avoid bitterness.
- Broth Check: Keep an eye on the broth level while simmering; too much or too little can affect the creaminess of your sauce.
- Cream for Richness: Stir in the heavy cream slowly to incorporate it evenly.
- Fresh Parmesan: Always opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese; it melts beautifully.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your pasta after adding cream and cheese; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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