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One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta That Will Change Your Weeknights

This One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a quick, creamy dish that transforms dinner into a gourmet experience in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Ditalini Pasta Can substitute with spaghetti or gluten-free pasta as needed.
For the Broth
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 4 tbsp Salted Butter Can use unsalted butter; adjust salt accordingly.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated yields the best texture.
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with another cooking oil.
For Optional Toppings
  • to taste Fresh Parsley Consider garnishing for freshness.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Adds a hint of spice.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant and lightly golden.
  2. Add 8 ounces of ditalini pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the garlicky oil. Continue to stir for about 1 minute.
  3. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 9–10 minutes.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and maintain gentle heat for about 1 minute.
  5. Remove from heat and gradually add in 4 tablespoons of salted butter and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully combined.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh cheese for best results and avoid overcooking the pasta. Consider doubling the recipe for meal prep.

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