Name: Creamy One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Ready in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Ditalini Pasta (Feel free to substitute with spaghetti or your favorite pasta.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced garlic is preferred for the best taste.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano is a great substitute.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Butter can be used for richer flavor.); to taste Salt (Adjust to taste.); to taste Pepper (Adjust to taste.); Fresh Parsley (Incorporate for a vibrant touch!); Red Pepper Flakes (Sprinkle for an extra spicy kick.)

The aroma filled the air—garlic sizzling in olive oil, promising a comforting meal ahead. If you’re like me, sometimes you crave a dish that feels like a warm hug, and that’s where my One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta comes in. This recipe is not just quick and easy; it transforms simple ingredients into a creamy masterpiece that can elevate any weeknight dinner. In just 20 minutes, you can indulge in a dish that feels gourmet without the complexity. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a gathering, this one-pan wonder is bound to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to discover the secret to effortless home-cooked satisfaction? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Pasta Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: Enjoy a delicious gourmet meal with minimal fuss—perfect for busy weeknights!

Creamy Delight: The rich combination of butter and Parmesan envelops every bite, creating a comforting experience.

One-Pan Wonder: Save time on cleanup with this easy all-in-one cooking method.

Versatile Ingredients: Substitute with whatever you have on hand; even try adding grilled chicken from the flavorful Crockpot Butter Chicken for extra protein!

Quick to Make: Whip this up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute dinner decisions.

Transform your meals and rediscover the joy of home cooking with this delicious One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta recipe!

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
Ditalini Pasta – This small pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute with spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
For the Sauce
Chicken Broth – Adds depth of flavor while the pasta cooks; for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic introduces aromatic richness; always prefer fresh for the best taste.
Heavy Cream – Ensures a decadent creaminess; if you want something lighter, half-and-half works well too.
Parmesan Cheese – A key ingredient that brings nutty flavor and creaminess; Pecorino Romano is a great sharp substitute if desired.
For Cooking
Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing garlic and starting the flavor base; using butter will give an extra rich touch.
Salt & Pepper – Basic seasonings that elevate the dish; adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
Optional Toppings
Fresh Parsley – This herb adds a refreshing brightness; try incorporating it for a vibrant touch!
Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle for an extra spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy flavors.

This easy-to-prepare One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta comes together with simple yet delicious ingredients, perfect for a cozy night in or entertaining friends. Enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness!

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 is shimmering, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. This will create a flavorful base for your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

Step 2: Toast Pasta
Add 8 ounces of ditalini pasta to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the garlic-infused oil. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to toast the pasta gently, which will enhance its nutty flavor as you prepare this creamy dish.

Step 3: Cook Pasta
Pour 4 cups of chicken broth into the skillet, ensuring it covers the pasta completely. Increase the heat to high and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 9-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and absorbs most of the liquid.

Step 4: Add Cream & Butter
Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Continue to cook on low for an additional minute, ensuring the cream blends well with the pasta. Then, remove the skillet from heat, allowing the residual warmth to infuse the flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
Gradually add 4 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta mixture. Stir gently until both the butter and cheese are fully melted and combined, creating a luscious, creamy sauce for your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick. Enjoy this comforting meal with loved ones for a delightful dining experience.

What to Serve with One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Imagine a cozy dinner where every bite is creamy and comforting, perfectly paired to elevate your dining experience.

Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the rich pasta perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce and pasta texture.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances your meal with vibrant color and a seasonal touch.
Grilled Chicken: Adding juicy, grilled chicken transforms this dish into a hearty feast that your family will love, making it more filling.
Zesty Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade refreshes the palate, cutting through the creaminess with a citrusy zing.
Chocolate Mousse: Treat yourself to a light chocolate mousse for dessert; its airy texture contrasts beautifully with the pasta’s richness.

Enjoy these pairings with your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta for an unforgettable meal experience!

Storage Tips for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen on low heat for gentle warming.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture, stirring gently to combine evenly.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving this dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta!

Expert Tips for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Fresh Ingredients: Always use freshly minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor impact in your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.
Whisk Carefully: When adding cream, whisk gently into the sauce to maintain a smooth texture and avoid clumps.
Al Dente Perfection: Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent mushiness, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Adjust to Taste: Don’t be shy about seasoning; taste your dish before serving, and adjust salt and pepper to achieve the ideal flavor.
Experiment Freely: Feel free to add extras like grilled chicken or seasonal vegetables; this recipe is versatile and perfect for creativity!

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the garlic and measure out the pasta and broth up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep ingredients fresh. The beauty of this dish is that when you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the garlic, add the pasta and broth, and follow the remaining steps. To ensure the sauce remains creamy, you can prepare the cream and cheese mixture up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it and stir it in right before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Variations

Feel free to get creative with this dish, adding your own twist to make it truly yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a creamy vegan version, enhancing depth with nutritional yeast.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta such as brown rice or quinoa pasta, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious comfort food.
Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh basil or thyme for a vibrant herby flavor; it transforms the dish into a garden delight.
Extra Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or roasted bell peppers for an added pop of color and nutrition; their subtle sweetness balances the dish perfectly!
Seafood Boost: Incorporate shrimp or diced salmon for a luxurious touch; the seafood pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce, making every bite exciting and bold!
Nutty Crust: Finish with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for an earthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
Max Flavor: For a flavor booster, add a splash of white wine while cooking the broth; it creates a richer depth and enhances the overall taste.

Explore these delicious variations, and don’t hesitate to mix in elements from other recipes like Crispy Parmesan Artichoke Hearts or even a splash of broth used in Seafood Pasta Savory for new combinations. Happy cooking!

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, I recommend ditalini because its small shape perfectly holds the creamy sauce. However, feel free to use spaghetti, penne, or any other pasta you have on hand; just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

How do I store leftovers of One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy texture and flavor. If it starts to dry out, simply add a little extra cream or chicken broth when reheating to revive it!

Can I freeze One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Portion the pasta into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on low, adding a splash of cream for that original creaminess.

What should I do if the pasta is overcooked?
If your pasta becomes overcooked, it can make the dish mushy. To prevent this, aim to cook it just to al dente as it will continue cooking in the residual heat of the sauce. If it does turn out too soft, try adding in some crispy sautéed vegetables or crispy bacon bits to introduce texture and balance it out.

Are there any dietary considerations or substitutions I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be made vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, if you're lactose intolerant, you can use lactose-free cream or a plant-based cream alternative. For those with nut allergies, simply omit any nutty toppings like Parmesan cheese and try a dairy-free cheese alternative instead.

How can I enhance the flavor of this dish?
To elevate your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme while cooking. You can also toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. The more toppings, the merrier!