If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and absolutely indulgent, this One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta checks every box. With its buttery richness and golden cheesy crust, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s made entirely in one skillet—no need for separate pots or baking dishes. Every forkful is coated in a savory Parmesan sauce that clings to the pasta just right.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a hearty meal to fuel your evening, this recipe delivers in flavor and simplicity. The balance of buttery smoothness and sharp Parmesan creates a crave-worthy dish that’s both classic and modern. Plus, it looks as impressive as it tastes, with a beautiful golden top and just the right amount of stretch from the melted cheese.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the most out of this One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, having the right tools makes all the difference:

Large oven-safe skillet or deep sauté pan: This is where the magic happens. You’ll cook the pasta and broil the top all in one vessel, which makes for easy cleanup.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pan. It helps you evenly mix the pasta and sauce for perfect coating.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters when you’re balancing flavors like butter, garlic, and Parmesan.

Box grater or microplane: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds richer flavor than pre-shredded.
Oven broiler: A quick broil adds a crispy, golden top to the pasta that finishes it off beautifully.

With these simple tools, you can go from stovetop to table without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients for the One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish brings something essential to the table—flavor, texture, or body. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Pasta (elbow macaroni or penne): The base of the dish, it absorbs all the buttery-Parmesan flavor while staying tender.
Unsalted butter: Creates the rich, creamy base of the sauce and deepens the flavor profile.

Fresh garlic: Adds a savory punch and aromatic warmth that elevates the overall taste.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce ultra creamy and helps it cling to the pasta.
Parmesan cheese: The star of the show—salty, nutty, and melts into a silky, luscious sauce.

Mozzarella cheese: For that stretchy, gooey finish that makes each bite satisfying.
Salt & black pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out the best in all the ingredients.
Breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkled on top for a buttery, golden crunch.

Fresh parsley: A fresh garnish that adds color and a pop of brightness.

How To Make the One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This builds the flavor base.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquid

Pour in your dry pasta and enough water or broth to just cover it. Bring to a gentle boil and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add in the Parmesan gradually, stirring constantly so it melts smoothly. Toss in the mozzarella and stir until everything is creamy and well combined.

Step 4: Broil to Finish

Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and a little more cheese on top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot. The top should be crispy while the inside stays velvety and rich.

How to Serve and Store This One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

This dish shines brightest when served piping hot straight from the skillet. For an easy family meal, place it in the center of the table and let everyone scoop out their portion. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to lighten things up. If you’re serving guests, you can garnish each plate with extra parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan for a restaurant-style touch.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce and bring back that luscious texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping?

Make sure to add the Parmesan gradually and stir constantly over low heat. This helps it melt evenly into the cream.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, shells, or even fusilli work great—just adjust the liquid and cooking time slightly based on the pasta shape.

Is it okay to skip the broiling step?

Absolutely. While broiling adds a golden, crispy top, the dish is still deliciously creamy without it.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the pasta and sauce ahead, then reheat and broil right before serving. Keep the pasta slightly undercooked if you’re doing this.

What protein pairs well with this?

Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or even roasted shrimp are excellent add-ins to make it a full meal.

Is it vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your Parmesan and mozzarella are made without animal rennet, this dish is vegetarian-friendly.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Comforting Twist?

If you loved this One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta, these other creamy and hearty recipes will hit the spot too:

One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a meaty, savory variation.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese with golden crispy topping and juicy chicken bites.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce if you crave that creamy Parmesan base but with tender chicken.

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini for a bold and sticky-sweet twist on weeknight pasta.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a simple yet rich garlic-infused experience.

And for even more daily recipe inspiration, check out my Pinterest board where I share my latest favorites:
Life With Olivia on Pinterest

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can easily find it again when the craving hits.

Let me know in the comments if you tried a fun twist on this dish—did you toss in bacon? Swap the pasta shape? Add some roasted veggies?

I always love seeing how you make these recipes your own. And if you have questions, feel free to drop them below. Let’s make cooking easier and more delicious together.

One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is your new go-to comfort dish—creamy, cheesy, golden-topped, and made entirely in one skillet. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. The buttery sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, and the broiled cheesy crust seals the deal.

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

2. Add dry pasta and pour in enough water or broth to just cover it. Bring to a boil and cook uncovered until al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.

3. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add Parmesan while stirring constantly until smooth. Stir in mozzarella until fully melted and creamy.

4. Sprinkle top with breadcrumbs and additional cheese if desired. Broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.

5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.