Save to Pinterest I threw this together on a Tuesday night when the fridge was nearly empty and everyone was hungry. Just pasta, butter, garlic, and broth turned into something so comforting it surprised me. The kitchen smelled like an Italian grandmother had been cooking all day, but I'd barely lifted a finger. Sometimes the simplest meals end up being the ones you come back to over and over.
The first time I made this for my kids, they were skeptical about such a plain-looking dish. But after the first bite, they went quiet in that good way, the kind where forks just keep moving. My youngest asked if we could have it again the next night, and honestly, I didn't mind at all.
Ingredients
- Ditalini pasta: These tiny tubes are perfect because they cook quickly and soak up all that buttery broth, but any small pasta works if that's what you have.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: This becomes the base of the sauce, so use good quality broth or swap in vegetable broth if you want to keep it vegetarian.
- Unsalted butter: It melts into the garlic and creates that silky, rich coating that makes this dish feel indulgent.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh is key here because the whole dish revolves around that sweet, mellow garlic flavor that blooms in the butter.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated makes all the difference, it melts smoothly and adds a nutty, salty finish.
- Shallot: Optional, but it adds a subtle sweetness that rounds out the garlic beautifully.
- Black pepper and red pepper flakes: A little heat and spice bring everything to life without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens up the final dish with a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the garlic and shallot. Let them sizzle gently for a minute or two until your kitchen smells amazing, but don't let them brown or they'll turn bitter.
- Toast the pasta:
- Toss the ditalini into the pan and stir it around in the garlic butter for about a minute. This step adds a subtle toasted flavor that makes a difference.
- Add the broth and simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir every few minutes so the pasta doesn't clump or stick to the bottom.
- Cook until creamy:
- Let it bubble away for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If it looks too dry before the pasta is done, just splash in a bit more broth or hot water.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning:
- Stir in the Parmesan, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Taste it and add salt if needed, though the broth and cheese usually do the job.
- Rest and serve:
- Take it off the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken up. Then spoon it into bowls, top with parsley and extra Parmesan, and dig in while it's hot.
Save to Pinterest One rainy evening, I made a double batch of this and invited a neighbor over who'd just moved in. We sat at the kitchen table with mismatched bowls, and she told me it reminded her of something her nonna used to make. That's when I realized this dish has a way of making people feel at home.
How to Make It Even Better
If you want to turn this into a full meal, stir in some sautéed spinach or frozen peas right at the end. I've also added leftover rotisserie chicken when I had it, and it turned into something hearty enough to feed a crowd. A splash of heavy cream at the finish makes it extra luxurious if you're feeling fancy.
What to Serve It With
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely. I like to serve it with crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of that garlicky sauce. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio makes it feel like a proper dinner party, even if it's just a Tuesday.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to three days, though the pasta will soak up more liquid as it sits. When you reheat it, add a splash of broth or water and warm it gently on the stove, stirring until it loosens up again. It won't look quite as creamy as the first day, but it still tastes wonderful.
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Reheat on low heat to avoid drying it out.
- Add a little butter or olive oil when reheating to bring back the silkiness.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become my go-to when I want something warm and satisfying without the fuss. I hope it brings a little comfort to your table, too.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works well as a substitute, making the dish suitable for vegetarians without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I make the pasta creamier?
Stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or a splash of milk at the end to enhance creaminess.
- → What is the best way to avoid pasta sticking during cooking?
Stir frequently while simmering and add a splash of hot water or extra broth if the mixture gets too dry before pasta is fully cooked.
- → Can I add other ingredients to make the dish heartier?
Yes, sautéed spinach, peas, or cooked chicken can be incorporated to boost texture and nutrition.
- → Is it necessary to let the dish rest after cooking?
Letting it rest for a couple of minutes helps thicken the sauce and allows flavors to meld for a richer taste.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan add freshness and enhance the flavor profile beautifully.