One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

This one-pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a quick and delightful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it offers a rich, creamy flavor that everyone will love. With its simple butter sauce and generous amounts of parmesan cheese, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite, enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. It’s versatile enough to pair with your choice of protein or serve as a comforting vegetarian option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish requires minimal prep and cooking time—ready in just 20 minutes!
• Creamy Flavor: The combination of butter, heavy cream, and parmesan creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one pan.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it alone or add your favorite protein for an extra boost.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make this pasta dish appealing to children and picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A must-have for cooking everything in one pan; it allows even heat distribution for perfect pasta texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing of ingredients.

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)

Seasoning

• 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 the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil along with minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Sprinkle in the dry ditalini pasta, ensuring it covers the bottom of the pan. Stir it around with the garlic to combine evenly.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta. Add 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover with a lid, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook covered for about 9-10 minutes.

Step 4: Stir and Check Doneness

Remove the lid after cooking time. Stir the pasta gently while sampling for doneness. You may notice some chicken broth left at the bottom, which will be absorbed as it cools.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream

Drizzle in 1/3 cup of heavy cream while keeping the stove on simmer. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until combined well.

Step 6: Melt Butter and Cheese

Remove from heat. Add in 3-4 tablespoons of salted butter along with 1/2 cup parmesan cheese. Stir until both melt into a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your dish! Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. For added spice, toss in some red pepper flakes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta that’s sure to impress at any table!

How to Serve One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and makes the meal heartier. Simply season and grill chicken breasts, then serve them sliced on top of the pasta.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Elevate the dish’s flavor with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A sprinkle of chopped herbs adds freshness and a pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad pairs wonderfully with this creamy pasta. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing for balance.

Garnished with Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving. This adds a kick that complements the creamy sauce.

With Lemon Zest

• A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors. Just grate some lemon peel over the pasta right before serving for a refreshing twist.

How to Perfect One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

For the best results with your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, consider these tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality parmesan cheese make a big difference in taste. Opt for freshly grated cheese for maximum creaminess.

• Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks. Aim for al dente to ensure it has the perfect bite.

• Stir Frequently: Stirring helps prevent the pasta from sticking together and ensures even cooking.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a creamier dish, feel free to add more cream or broth as needed while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Complement your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers provide a healthy crunch.

3. Caesar Salad: This classic salad brings crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, perfect alongside rich pasta.

4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances out the richness of the dish.

5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer.

6. Antipasto Platter: Offer assorted olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses for an Italian-inspired complement.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese add an elegant touch to your dinner table.

8. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a delicious contrast to creamy pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using too much broth: Adding too much chicken broth can lead to overly soupy pasta. Measure carefully to ensure the pasta is just covered.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the pasta can result in uneven cooking. Stir occasionally during the simmering process for a consistent texture.
• Skipping the taste test: Not tasting your dish before serving can leave it under-seasoned. Always sample the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the recommended cooking time and check for doneness regularly.
• Neglecting toppings: Skipping optional toppings like fresh parsley or red pepper flakes means missing out on added flavor and presentation. Consider adding these for an extra touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Divide into portions for easier thawing later.

Reheating One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta:

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free ditalini or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice while following the same cooking instructions.

How can I add protein to One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?

You can easily add cooked chicken, beef, turkey, or lamb during the last few minutes of cooking for additional protein.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version of this dish.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and swap dairy butter with plant-based butter along with vegan parmesan cheese.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is not only quick but also incredibly delicious. Its creamy texture paired with fresh parmesan makes it a family favorite. Feel free to customize it by adding your preferred vegetables or proteins for an even heartier meal. Try it today and enjoy a delightful dinner experience!