Description
One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is the cozy, creamy, and cheesy dish you need in your weekly dinner rotation. This easy recipe is made entirely in one skillet, combining pantry staples like pasta, garlic, butter, and parmesan into a rich, comforting sauce. It’s the ultimate quick dinner or lunch idea that delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this pasta is also kid-friendly and customizable—making it one of the best food ideas for all seasons. Whether you’re searching for a quick meal, dinner ideas, or an easy recipe to impress, this one-pan wonder has you covered.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
2. Stir in the uncooked pasta and pour in the broth. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged.
3. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and gradually add the grated parmesan, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Season with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce than pre-shredded.
Stir the pasta every few minutes during cooking to prevent sticking.
Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to bring back the creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 470
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 42
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 13
- Cholesterol: 60
Keywords: quick dinner, one pan pasta, parmesan pasta, easy recipe, pasta dish, comfort food