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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Ditalini Pasta Recipe


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4.3 from 49 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy and comforting Ditalini Pasta cooked in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth and half and half, infused with garlic and finished with Parmesan cheese and butter. This quick and easy skillet dish is perfect for a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes.


Ingredients

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 cheese
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • Fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  2. Add pasta and liquids: Pour in 8 ounces of dry ditalini pasta, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of half and half, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together to combine evenly in the skillet.
  3. Simmer the pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
  4. Finish with cheese and butter: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 3 tablespoons salted butter until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if desired.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
  • Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the skillet.
  • If the pasta absorbs too much liquid and seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen before adding cheese and butter.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use a vegetarian Parmesan alternative.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a little milk or broth to restore creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian