Description
Creamy Ditalini Pasta is a comforting Italian-American dish featuring tender ditalini pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe comes together easily on the stovetop and can be customized with optional garnishes or additions like pancetta or peas.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz ditalini pasta
- salt (for boiling water, to taste)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- salt, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare cream sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to combine the flavors and slightly thicken.
- Add cheese and combine: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Add cooked pancetta, bacon, or peas for extra flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables on the side.
