Save A simple comforting pasta dish featuring tender ditalini tossed with aromatic garlic and rich creamy butter Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a flavorful side
This recipe has become a family favorite for those busy evenings when you want something delicious and easy to make
Ingredients
- Pasta: 200 g (about 7 oz) ditalini pasta
- Dairy: 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Aromatics: 3 large cloves garlic, finely minced
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add ditalini and cook according to package instructions until al dente Reserve ¼ cup of pasta cooking water then drain pasta
- Step 2:
- While pasta cooks melt butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat Add minced garlic and gently sauté for 1 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned
- Step 3:
- Add cooked ditalini to the skillet with garlic butter Toss well to coat adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce
- Step 4:
- Taste and season with salt and pepper if desired Serve immediately optionally garnished with parsley or grated parmesan
Save This dish is a great example of how simple ingredients can bring family together around the table
Required Tools
Large pot Colander Large skillet Wooden spoon or spatula Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) Dairy (butter) Ensure the butter is free from additives if you have sensitivities Always check pasta labels for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 420 Total Fat 18 g Carbohydrates 57 g Protein 9 g per serving
Save This easy butter and garlic ditalini pasta will soon become your go-to comfort food that never disappoints
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of pasta is best to use?
Ditalini pasta works best due to its small shape, which evenly holds the buttery garlic sauce, but other small short-cut pastas can be substituted.
- → Can I use plant-based butter instead of regular butter?
Yes, using plant-based butter is a great vegan alternative, maintaining the creamy texture and rich flavor of the dish.
- → How do I prevent garlic from burning while sautéing?
Sauté minced garlic over medium-low heat and stir frequently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but avoid browning to maintain a mellow, sweet flavor.
- → Why is reserved pasta water added to the sauce?
Adding a splash of starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce by loosening the butter and garlic coating, allowing it to cling beautifully to the pasta.
- → Can I add spices or herbs to enhance the flavor?
Absolutely, adding red pepper flakes for heat or fresh parsley for brightness complements the buttery garlic notes nicely.