If there’s one thing I’ve learned from Italian home cooking, it’s that simplicity often wins. This Ditalini Pasta recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something rich, satisfying, and downright comforting.
The sauce is creamy without being heavy, the garlic and Parmesan shine through, and that tiny, tube-shaped pasta holds every drop of flavor perfectly.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ditalini Pasta
This recipe turns everyday pantry staples into something silky, cheesy, and full of flavor.
- One pot, minimal cleanup
- Creamy but light — no heavy sauces here
- Ready in 20 minutes
- Great base for add-ins like chicken or veggies
- Family-friendly and satisfying
It’s like a cross between mac and cheese and Italian risotto — simple, indulgent, and perfect for weeknights.
I first made this dish on a chilly evening when all I had was some broth, Parmesan, and leftover pasta in the pantry. By the time it hit the table, it was the kind of meal that made my family stop mid-bite and look up with that “whoa, what is this?” face.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1¼ cup ditalini pasta (175g, uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth (plus up to 1 cup more if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- ¼ cup heavy cream (add more if you like it creamier)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, minced
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for protein
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist
- Stir in spinach or peas for color
- Top with extra Parmesan for a classic finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. (Jake’s tip: Garlic paste spreads flavor more evenly than chopped garlic — perfect for creamy sauces.)
- Toast the pasta: Add ditalini pasta to the pan and stir for about 1 minute. This step helps develop a nuttier flavor.
- Simmer in broth: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and season with salt. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Stir occasionally until pasta absorbs most of the liquid, about 10 minutes.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding more broth as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish with parsley and pepper: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley and a good grind of black pepper.
Quick Reminders:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts beautifully.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; ditalini should be tender with a little bite.
- Adjust consistency with extra broth or cream.
- Stir constantly near the end to prevent sticking.
Expert Tips for Success
This dish is simple, but a few details make it shine.
- Stir the pasta often to prevent clumping.
- Add cheese off the heat to avoid grainy texture.
- Use low-sodium broth — it gives you control over seasoning.
- For richer flavor, add a splash of white wine before the broth.
- Serve immediately — this pasta is best fresh and creamy.
If you love Parmesan-forward dishes like this, you’ll also adore my Cacio e Pepe — another Italian favorite built on minimal ingredients and big flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta pairs perfectly with just about anything.
- Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables
- Serve as a side with steak or salmon
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
- For an elegant touch, finish with lemon zest
For another quick pasta with similar comfort, try my One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta — it’s every bit as creamy and easy.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store It
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating to restore creaminess.
- Not ideal for freezing — dairy can separate when thawed.
How to Reheat It
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a bit of broth or cream.
- Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until warm.
This pasta reheats well, keeping that smooth, cheesy texture with a little added moisture.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 cup)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Calcium: 240mg
It’s creamy, rich, and satisfying — comfort food that’s balanced with good fats and protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with other pasta shapes?
Yes! Small shapes like elbow macaroni, orzo, or small shells work great.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely — just swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
What pairs best with this dish?
Try it with Garlic Parmesan Meatballs with Pasta or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ditalini Pasta is a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s buttery, garlicky, and coated in cheesy perfection — everything I love about Italian comfort food. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself after a long day, it’s the kind of dish that makes life taste better.
And once you’ve made it once, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.
- Always use good-quality Parmesan for best flavor.
- Adjust the creaminess to your taste.
- Serve fresh — that’s when it’s magic.
For another twist on Italian simplicity, check out my Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula — it’s light, bright, and just as comforting as this creamy Ditalini.
Creamy Ditalini Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic paste and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ditalini pasta and stir for 1 minute to toast slightly.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and add salt. Simmer on medium-low, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding extra broth if needed to loosen.
- Remove from heat. Stir in minced parsley and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Cook times are based on explicit steps.
- Parmesan should be added off-heat for the smoothest texture. Best served fresh.
