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.
Ingredients
12 oz elbow macaroni or penne pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups water or chicken broth (enough to just cover pasta)
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth sauces.
If storing leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.
You can skip broiling if you’re short on time—it will still taste amazing without the golden top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pan / Stovetop + Broiler
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: pasta, Parmesan, one pan, comfort food