One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Its creamy sauce and generous amounts of freshly grated parmesan cheese make it a hit among both kids and adults. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests, this recipe is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite protein. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of butter and heavy cream creates a rich and satisfying sauce.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy flavor, this dish appeals to even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it plain or add your favorite protein for a heartier meal.
• Minimal Cleanup: Made in one pan, this recipe saves you time on dishes after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: This allows for even cooking and provides enough space for all the ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping garlic and other ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work quick and easy.

Ingredients

This viral one-pan Butter Parmesan Pasta comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s creamy and decadent with a simple butter sauce and loads of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Finish it off with your favorite protein, or enjoy it as is. It’s adored by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups dry ditalini pasta
– 2 1/2 -3 cups chicken broth
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/3 cup heavy cream
– 3-4 tablespoons salted butter
– 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
– 1/2 tsp each: salt and pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– optional toppings: fresh parsley and 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 the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add the Pasta

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

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Remove the lid and stir the pasta while sampling for doneness. There may be some chicken broth left at this stage, but it will be absorbed as you continue cooking.

Step 5: Add Cream

Drizzle in the heavy cream while keeping the stove over simmering heat. Stir gently for about 1 minute to combine thoroughly.

Step 6: Incorporate Butter and Cheese

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

Step 7: Season to Taste

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.

How to Serve One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Serving One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is easy and delightful. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Use torn basil leaves for an aromatic twist.

Include a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Slice grilled chicken breast and place it on top for added protein.
• Sautéed Shrimp: Toss in some sautéed shrimp for a seafood flair.

Create a Creamy Variation

• Extra Heavy Cream: For an even creamier texture, drizzle more heavy cream before serving.
• Cream Cheese: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese for additional richness.

Garnish with Cheese

• Additional Parmesan: Grate more parmesan on top to enhance the cheesy goodness.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, sprinkle some feta cheese over the pasta.

How to Perfect One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

To make your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan for the best flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta; overcooking can lead to mushy noodles.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for balanced flavor.
• Experiment with Proteins: Try different proteins like turkey or lamb to find your favorite combination.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Save Some Pasta Water: Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it can help adjust sauce consistency later.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some suggestions that complement this creamy dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.
2. Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad adds crispness and balances the richness of the pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients while being easy to prepare.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add depth and sweetness that pairs well with pasta.
5. Caprese Salad: A light Caprese salad brings in bright flavors with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the creamy pasta nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially with a quick recipe like One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Bold phrase: Not measuring ingredients accurately. Precision is key for the best results; use measuring cups and spoons to get it right.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the pasta. Keep an eye on the cooking time and taste for doneness to avoid mushy pasta.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the tasting step. Always taste your dish before serving; adjust seasoning as needed to enhance flavors.
• Bold phrase: Using low-quality cheese. Freshly grated parmesan gives a better flavor; avoid pre-grated versions if possible.
• Bold phrase: Not adding enough broth. Ensure the pasta is fully covered in broth for even cooking and flavor absorption.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth and reheat over low heat in a skillet while stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a creamy pasta dish made with butter, parmesan cheese, garlic, and chicken broth. It’s quick and easy to prepare.

Can I customize my One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli or include proteins such as grilled chicken or turkey for added nutrition.

How long does One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta last?

When stored properly, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

What can I serve with One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different proteins or veggies, making it suitable for any meal. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its creamy goodness!