Name: One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Ditalini Pasta (Can substitute spaghetti or fettuccine.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth works for vegetarian option.); 2 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced for best flavor.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can use half-and-half for a lighter version.); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated for depth of flavor.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For sautéing garlic.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (For garnish.); 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for added heat.)

The scent of garlic sizzling in olive oil transports me to cozy family dinners—there’s just something undeniably comforting about it. That feeling inspired me to create this easy One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, which effortlessly combines simplicity with indulgence. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish envelops ditalini pasta in a rich, velvety sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. You’ll love how it not only comes together in one pan but also allows you to skip the takeout and savor a homemade meal in no time. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests or treat yourself after a long day. Curious how something so creamy can be so easy to make? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This dish requires just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Rich, Creamy Flavor: The blend of butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a sauce that hugs each piece of pasta, offering a deeply satisfying taste.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a comforting meal solo.

Versatile Base: Swap out ditalini for your favorite pasta or add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option.

Quick to Prepare: In about 20 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dinner—ideal for busy weeknights when takeout seems too tempting.

Pair it with a fresh green salad or some warm garlic bread and you’ll have an unforgettable meal. Looking for more comforting ideas? Check out this delicious Peanut Butter Pie for dessert!

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Ditalini Pasta – This is the star of the dish, but feel free to swap it for spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer!
• Chicken Broth – Not only cooks the pasta but also adds rich flavor; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian twist.

For the Sauce
• Garlic – Freshly minced for that fragrant aroma; dried garlic can suffice in a pinch, but there’s nothing like the fresh taste!
• Heavy Cream – Gives the pasta its creamy texture; you can use half-and-half for a lighter version if desired.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated cheese enhances the sauce, adding a nutty depth; don’t skimp on this ingredient!

For Seasoning
• Salt & Pepper – These are your essentials for flavor; taste and adjust before serving for the best balance.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing the garlic; using butter instead will add even more richness to the dish.

Optional Toppings
• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle adds a lovely touch of color and freshness!
• Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy a little kick, these can elevate the flavor.

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a dream come true for those looking to create a comforting meal with minimal effort!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Once the oil shimmering, add 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, making sure not to let it burn. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling a flavorful start to your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

Step 2: Toast Pasta
Add 8 ounces of ditalini pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to coat it in the garlic-infused oil. Toast the pasta for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors. This step builds a lovely depth to the dish, setting the stage for a delicious buttery sauce that will soon envelop the pasta.

Step 3: Cook Pasta
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Season generously with salt and pepper, bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 9-10 minutes while stirring occasionally. The pasta should be al dente, soaking up all the wonderful flavors from the broth.

Step 4: Add Cream & Butter
After the pasta reaches the desired tenderness, lower the heat further and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir gently to combine, letting the mixture simmer together for about a minute. As the cream heats up, it will blend beautifully with the pasta, creating that luscious, rich sauce for your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until both the butter and cheese have melted completely, resulting in a creamy, decadent sauce that clings to the ditalini pasta. The visual transformation of the sauce into a velvety coating signifies that your pasta is nearly ready to be served.

Step 6: Serve
Taste the One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Once flavors are balanced, serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Enjoy the comforting essence of this quick, delicious meal that is sure to impress!

Storage Tips for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the pasta fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of heavy cream or broth. This will help restore the creamy texture and flavor.

Avoiding Dryness: If you notice your pasta has thickened in storage, a little extra cream or broth during reheating can help bring it back to its silky consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can measure and combine the dry ingredients—like salt, pepper, and garlic—up to 24 hours ahead for quicker assembly. Additionally, you can chop the garlic and refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh overnight. If you prefer to prepare the entire dish ahead of time, cook it completely and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to maintain that creamy consistency. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll save time and enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic elevates the dish, providing the best flavor and texture.

• Keep It Stirred: Stirring the pasta occasionally while it cooks prevents it from sticking together and ensures even cooking.

• Adjust the Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. The perfect seasoning enhances the overall flavor of your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

• Mind the Heat: When adding cream and cheese, cook on low heat to maintain a gentle simmer, preventing the sauce from separating.

• Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.

What to Serve with One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Pairing this dish with delightful sides and drinks elevates it into a memorable dining experience, perfectly balancing flavors and textures.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted asparagus or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and a touch of sweetness that brightens the meal.
Grilled Chicken: Tender, marinated chicken on the side adds protein and heartiness, making the meal more substantial and satisfying.
Crispy Pancetta: Crispy pancetta crumbles sprinkled over the pasta add a delightful crunch and salty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, its acidity balancing the creamy sauce and making every bite more enjoyable.
Mini Cheesecakes: End the meal on a sweet note with mini cheesecakes; their creamy texture mirrors the pasta, offering a flavorful conclusion.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs provides a nutritious, nutty contrast that complements the richness of the pasta.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon offers a bright, bubbly finish, cleansing the palate perfectly.

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful dish and make it your own with these clever twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute ditalini with gluten-free pasta for a tasty option everyone can enjoy.
A little adjustment means no one misses out on the creamy goodness!
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled crispy pancetta for a satisfying protein boost.
These additions elevate the dish from simple comfort food to a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.
Veggie Delight: Mix in roasted vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for a burst of freshness.
This adds color, texture, and nutrients, making it even more wholesome without losing any comfort.
Flavorful Cheese Swap: Try blue cheese or pecorino instead of Parmesan for a bolder flavor.
Each option brings its own unique essence to this creamy dish—give it a whirl!
Creamy Vegan Option: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and cheese for a vegan take.
You’ll still enjoy that creamy richness while accommodating plant-based diets.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy flavor.
This twist transforms the dish into something spectacular and exciting, perfect for spice lovers!
Zesty Lemon Twist: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and zest just before serving for a bright lift.
It beautifully contrasts the richness of the sauce, keeping it light and refreshing.

Looking for more delicious ideas to round out your meal? Don’t forget to try my scrumptious Parmesan Zucchini Fries as a side!

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ditalini pasta is the star of this dish due to its unique texture, you can easily swap it out for spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for the perfect al dente texture!

How should I store leftover One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain the creamy sauce without drying it out. If you’re saving for later, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy again!

Can I freeze One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to reheat, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

What should I do if my sauce becomes too thick while cooking?
No worries! If you notice your sauce thickening too much during the cooking process, simply add a bit of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it up. Start with a couple of tablespoons and stir well. This will help achieve that silky, creamy texture that we all love in One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

Are there any dietary alternatives for this recipe?
Very much so! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap ditalini pasta with gluten-free pasta available at most grocery stores. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. This way, you can still indulge in the same creamy goodness while accommodating dietary needs.

Can I add protein or vegetables to this pasta?
The more the merrier! You can enhance this dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta for added flavor. If you prefer vegetables, consider tossing in roasted asparagus or cherry tomatoes. Just add them when you incorporate the cream and cheese for an additional layer of deliciousness!