Description
This creamy ditalini pasta recipe features tender ditalini cooked directly in flavorful chicken broth and half and half, then tossed with Parmesan cheese and butter for a rich and comforting one-pan meal. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 8 ounces dry ditalini pasta (1 ½ cups)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil followed by 3 teaspoons minced garlic. Cook the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute, making sure not to burn it.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup half and half into the skillet. Add 8 ounces dry ditalini pasta, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything to combine well.
- Boil and simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook the pasta for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Finish the dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Add ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 3 tablespoons salted butter. Toss gently to melt the cheese and butter, coating the pasta evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute half and half with heavy cream for a richer dish or with whole milk for a lighter version.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you want more control over the saltiness of the final dish.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor, but pre-grated cheese can be used in a pinch.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: ditalini pasta, creamy pasta, one pan pasta, quick pasta recipe, Italian pasta, garlic pasta, Parmesan pasta
