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.
I have always enjoyed making this dish when I need something satisfying but fast. It has become a regular in my weeknight rotation because it never fails to please.
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 brings back fond memories of quick dinners shared with family after busy days.
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
Save This recipe is a quick and tasty way to enjoy Italian-inspired comfort food any night of the week.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Ditalini is ideal for its bite-sized shape that holds the buttery garlic sauce well, but other small pasta shapes can work similarly.
- → How can I make the sauce silkier?
Adding a splash of reserved pasta cooking water helps loosen the butter and garlic mixture, creating a smooth, velvety coating.
- → Can I substitute the butter for a vegan option?
Yes, a plant-based butter alternative can be used without compromising the rich, creamy texture of the sauce.
- → What is the best way to avoid burning the garlic?
Sauté garlic on medium-low heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, to prevent bitterness.
- → Are there any recommended seasonings to add?
Simple salt and pepper work well, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant heat to the dish.