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This creamy and buttery one-pan pasta offers a comforting meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. The ditalini pasta absorbs the rich chicken broth, garlic, and Parmesan, creating a luscious sauce that is both simple and indulgent.
I first made this on a chilly evening when I wanted something cozy without fuss. It quickly became a favorite for easy dinners that feel a bit special.
Ingredients List
- Ditalini pasta: small tubular shapes soak up sauce beautifully
- Chicken broth: adds savory depth choose low sodium to control saltiness
- Garlic: minced fresh garlic gives vibrant aroma and flavor
- Heavy cream: creates a luscious and smooth texture
- Salted butter: enriches the sauce with creamy richness
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for best flavor and melting quality
- Salt: enhances taste balance use sparingly to avoid overpowering
- Black pepper: freshly ground adds gentle heat and complexity
- Olive oil: for sautéing garlic gently without burning
- Fresh parsley: optional garnish that brightens the dish with color and freshness
- Red pepper flakes: optional for those who enjoy a slight spicy kick
Cooking Steps
- Prepare the Garlic:
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant about 30 seconds taking care not to brown the garlic to keep a mellow flavor.
- Toast the Pasta:
- Add the ditalini pasta to the skillet and stir with the garlic coating the pasta completely to enhance its nutty undertones.
- Add Broth and Season:
- Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta fully. Add salt and pepper. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Covered:
- Once boiling cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let the pasta cook for 9 to 10 minutes until tender and most broth is absorbed.
- Check and Stir:
- Remove the lid and stir. The pasta should be soft and silky. Any leftover broth will be soaked in as it cools.
- Add Cream and Butter:
- Lower heat further and stir in the heavy cream blending it smoothly into the pasta. Mix for about one minute to integrate flavors.
- Add Cheese and Finish:
- Remove skillet from heat then stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for an added pop of color and flavor.
Best Storage Practices: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or cream to revive creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating without stirring as the sauce can separate.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap ditalini pasta for small shells or elbow macaroni if needed. Vegetable broth works well instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist. Use half and half in place of heavy cream for a lighter version. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Serving Pairings
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette balancing the creamy richness. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts add texture and freshness. A chilled glass of white wine complements the buttery garlic flavors perfectly.
Seasonal Upgrades
Add fresh spring peas or chopped asparagus near the end of cooking for a burst of color and sweetness Stir in wilted spinach or kale for a nutrient boost and vibrant green hues Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and nuttiness
This recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors to create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights and special occasions alike.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Ditalini pasta is ideal due to its bite-sized shape, allowing it to cook evenly and absorb flavors well. Small tubular pastas like elbow macaroni or small shells can be good substitutes.
- → Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, substituting vegetable broth maintains the cooking liquid's moisture and flavor while keeping the dish suitable for different dietary preferences.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking while cooking?
Stir the pasta occasionally during simmering to keep it from sticking. Using enough broth to cover the pasta also helps it cook evenly without clumping.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the simmering step boosts nutrition and adds texture without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- → What if I want a thicker sauce?
Reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly, or simmer a few minutes longer uncovered. Alternatively, increase butter and Parmesan amounts to enrich and thicken the sauce.
- → How do I add extra flavor without overpowering the dish?
Fresh herbs such as parsley or a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes at the end enhance depth and brightness without masking the butter and Parmesan base.