When the craving for comfort food hits, this One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta answers with rich, creamy simplicity. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, thanks to golden buttery notes, a rich dose of Parmesan, and tender pasta cooked in a single pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

What sets this dish apart is how incredibly creamy it becomes without the need for heavy cream or multiple pots. The starch from the pasta mixes with the butter and cheese, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every bite. It’s weeknight dinner made indulgent—with a fraction of the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

This dish is fast, filling, and fabulously creamy. It’s a no-brainer when you need a satisfying dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. The one-pan method means fewer dishes, while the rich flavor of Parmesan and butter keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s easily customizable—you can add veggies, chicken, or shrimp for extra protein.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?

Short pastas like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini are ideal for this recipe. They cook evenly in a single pan and have enough surface area to hold onto all that creamy, cheesy sauce. Avoid longer pastas like spaghetti or fettuccine as they may clump or overcook in this format.

Ingredients for the One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Every ingredient in this recipe is about building bold flavor with ease:

Elbow Macaroni: The perfect shape to soak up all that creamy sauce.
Unsalted Butter: Adds rich flavor and acts as the base for the sauce.
Garlic (minced): A punch of flavor to elevate the butter base.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth while cooking the pasta, replacing plain water.
Milk: Balances the butter and adds creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: The star of the dish—salty, nutty, and melty.
Salt & Pepper: Season to taste and enhance all other flavors.
Parsley (optional): For a fresh finish and pop of green.

How To Make the One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

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

Step 2: Cook the Pasta in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the macaroni and stir. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Add Milk and Parmesan

Reduce heat to low. Pour in the milk and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with parsley if using. Serve warm and creamy straight from the pan.

How to Serve and Store One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

This dish is best served hot from the pan while the cheese is still gooey and the sauce is silky. It’s the perfect last-minute dinner idea that can feed about 4 people generously. If you’re planning for meal prep or leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta?

🍜 Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

A flavorful, meaty bite that complements the cheesy pasta.

🫕 Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Double down on cheese and comfort with this family-favorite pasta dish.

🥜 A Hearty and Comforting Tuscan Bean Soup

Perfect to balance the richness with something brothy and warming.

🌟 Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Add a seafood twist with this decadent and herby option.

🍽️ Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad

Bring freshness and protein to the table with this light and zesty salad.

🍲 Easy Veggie Patties

Crispy, golden, and great for those who want a plant-based side.

🥗 Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

End the meal with something sweet and fruity.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re loving this cheesy one-pan pasta, you might want to try:

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use a different cheese or maybe added broccoli? I love seeing your variations!

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One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta

Author: Nora
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for an ultra-comforting, fast, and flavor-packed dinner idea? This One Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta is your weeknight hero. Made in a single skillet, it creates a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite of tender macaroni—no need for cream or complicated steps. It’s the perfect easy recipe when you’re short on time but craving something cozy and satisfying. Great for quick dinners, last-minute guests, or even lazy Sunday nights. Whether you’re searching for dinner ideas, comfort food recipes, or creamy pasta dishes, this one’s guaranteed to please.