If you’ve been scrolling through feeds and craving something that’s both insanely comforting and incredibly quick to make, you’ve just got to try That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe. It’s that magical combination of tender ditalini pasta bathed in a luscious, garlicky butter sauce enriched with Parmesan and cream, delivering flavor that feels like a warm hug. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish manages to be elegant, satisfying, and totally worthy of becoming a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white frying pan with a brass handle is shown from above, placed on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, there is a layer of small, uncooked, orange pasta tubes spread mostly in the center right side. Around and under the pasta, there are glossy pools of golden-yellow oil and bits of light brown garlic or a similar ingredient scattered unevenly. A white spoon rests on the right edge of the pan, partly touching the pasta. The bright colors of the pasta and oil contrast with the clean white pan and light background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity fool you; every ingredient here plays a crucial role in making That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe the delightful dish it is. From the aromatic garlic paste that sets the savory base, to the rich Parmesan that melts into the creamy sauce, each component adds depth, texture, and that irresistible golden color.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a silky base and helps gently cook the garlic to bring out its fragrance.
1 tablespoon garlic paste: Intensifies the dish with fresh garlic flavor without the fuss of mincing.
1¼ cup ditalini pasta (175g, uncooked): The tiny tube-shaped pasta is perfect for soaking up all the creamy sauce.
2 cups chicken broth (+ up to 1 additional cup if needed): Adds a savory depth of flavor and cooks the pasta right in the sauce.
¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste): Enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
½ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated): Melts into the sauce, giving it a nutty and creamy richness.
¼ cup heavy cream (+¼ more if desired): Boosts creaminess for that indulgent, silky texture.
2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel.
Black pepper (to taste): Provides a gentle heat that balances the creaminess.
Fresh parsley (minced): Brings a fresh, herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness.

How to Make That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic paste and cook it gently until it’s fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. This step is essential because it infuses the oil with that savory garlicky goodness, creating a flavorful foundation for the entire dish.

Step 2: Toast the Pasta

Next, toss in the ditalini pasta, stirring to coat each little piece in the garlicky oil. Toasting the pasta briefly like this adds a subtle nuttiness and helps the sauce cling to the pasta better, making every bite more flavorful.

Step 3: Simmer the Pasta in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, just enough to cover the pasta, along with a pinch of salt. Keep stirring frequently to prevent sticking and let the pasta cook directly in the flavorful broth. This technique softens the pasta while also concentrating the sauce without requiring any extra steps.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

When the pasta is tender but still has a little bite and most of the broth is absorbed (around 8 minutes), fold in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and butter. Stir gently until everything melts into a smooth, rich sauce. This creamy step transforms the pasta into the dreamy, velvety dish you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Finish by seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking. Sprinkle on the minced fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, because this sauce is at its absolute best before it starts to break down.

How to Serve That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe

The image shows a close-up of creamy macaroni pasta mixed evenly with a cheese sauce, giving it a shiny, smooth texture in a light golden-yellow color. Small pieces of chopped green herbs are sprinkled throughout the pasta, adding a fresh contrast. On top, fine grated cheese adds a slight crumbly texture and white color. A wooden spoon with a warm brown tone scoops some of the pasta, lifting it above the creamy mixture beneath, with the pasta tightly packed on the spoon. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes adds a touch of flair. Some toasted breadcrumbs can offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta. And of course, fresh herbs like basil or oregano are always welcome to brighten the plate.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add color, nutrition, and a pleasant textural contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the sauce beautifully, and drape a lemon wedge on the side to add a fresh citrus zing if desired. For a cozy dinner, plate it alongside warm garlic bread for dipping, making the meal feel even more indulgent and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so it might seem thicker the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes best without the cream added, as dairy can separate when thawed. Instead, freeze the cooked pasta with broth and garlic oil, then stir in fresh cream and cheese when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to return the sauce to its silky texture. Avoid using high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While ditalini is perfect for its shape and size, small pasta like elbow macaroni or orzo work beautifully to hold the sauce just as well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken broth for a flavorful vegetable broth. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying, especially if you use a good-quality broth.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

To thicken the sauce, add a little extra Parmesan or reduce the amount of broth slightly when cooking. For a thinner sauce, stir in a splash more cream or broth when finishing the dish.

Can I prepare That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

You can, but the sauce is best fresh. If making ahead, undercook the pasta slightly in the broth, then finish adding cream and cheese just before serving to keep the sauce fresh and creamy.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days in an airtight container, then reheat gently on the stove with a little added broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s texture.

Final Thoughts

Once you try That Viral Creamy Garlic Butter Ditalini Pasta Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s been popping up everywhere. It’s a scrumptious and effortless dish that brings indulgent flavors with surprisingly little fuss. Trust me, this one’s going to be your new go-to comfort food that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat. So grab those simple ingredients and get ready to treat yourself!