3-Ingredient Butter Garlic Ditalini

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 dish instantly became a favorite in my household for its simplicity and comforting taste.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 200 g (about 7 oz) ditalini pasta
• Dairy: 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• Aromatics: 3 large cloves garlic, finely minced

Instructions

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

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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 (not included in original ingredients).

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Sharing this pasta with family always brings smiles and warm memories to the dinner table.

Required Tools

Large pot, colander, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (gluten) and Dairy (butter). Ensure the butter is free from additives if you have sensitivities. Always check pasta labels for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 420 Calories, 18 g Total Fat, 57 g Carbohydrates, 9 g Protein

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Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

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This recipe is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I prevent garlic from burning?

Sauté garlic over medium-low heat and watch closely. Remove from heat as soon as it becomes fragrant to avoid bitterness.

→ Can I use other pasta shapes besides ditalini?

Yes, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells work well with this preparation.

→ What is the purpose of reserving pasta water?

Reserved pasta water adds moisture and helps create a silky, smooth sauce when combined with butter and garlic.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based alternatives to keep the dish dairy-free and vegan-friendly.

→ What seasoning complements this pasta best?

Salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance flavor, and a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat.