One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta: The Creamy, Quick Dinner You’ll Love

Introduction

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare, look no further! One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is here to save your day. This creamy dish combines the rich flavors of butter and parmesan in a way that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you will create a dinner that will impress your family and friends. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

To whip up your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. You can substitute the pasta or broth to make it your own!

Timing

Timing is key when cooking this dish. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. Isn’t that fantastic?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

First, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a large skillet. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Butter and Garlic

Once the pasta is almost al dente, it’s time to add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in Parmesan

Next, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Mix it well until the cheese is melted and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your meal!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for a serving of One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 2g

This dish is rich in flavor but also provides a decent source of energy. However, always consider portion sizes!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re aiming for a lighter version of this dish, consider these healthier alternatives:

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Replace butter with olive oil for a healthier fat option.
• Opt for nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a vegan option.

These changes can make your One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta a bit healthier without sacrificing too much flavor!

Serving Suggestions

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing side.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Mix and match to find your perfect meal combination!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls:

• Don’t overcook the pasta. Aim for al dente to keep it from becoming mushy.
• Be careful with the salt. The broth and cheese already add saltiness.
• Skip the pre-grated parmesan. Freshly grated cheese melts much better!

Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly creamy and delicious.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to help loosen the sauce.

Enjoy your pasta again without any fuss!

Conclusion

One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, you can’t go wrong!

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FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just store it in individual containers for easy reheating.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli would all be delicious additions.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With creamy goodness and a hint of garlic, it’s a dish that everyone will love. So, whip it up tonight and enjoy the smiles around the dinner table!