Description
Creamy Ditalini Pasta is a classic Italian-inspired dish featuring short, tube-shaped pasta known as ditalini, coated in a creamy, luscious sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a variety of spices and seasonings. The dish is versatile and can be customized with various add-ins like vegetables, meats, and herbs. It’s a fantastic meal for any occasion, whether you’re looking for something comforting and easy for dinner or a flavorful side dish to serve with your main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup Ditalini pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the Ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
- Make it Creamy:
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked Ditalini pasta to the skillet.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Add Extras:
- Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the creamy Ditalini pasta to serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For extra flavor, stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or a spoonful of pesto just before serving. Want to add some protein? Mix in cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Creamy Ditalini Pasta