pastina recipe
Creamy pastina is the ultimate Italian comfort food, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. Made with tiny pasta cooked in savory broth, then enriched with milk, butter, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is velvety, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you keep it classic or add your favorite vegetables and proteins, creamy pastina is sure to bring warmth and nostalgia to your table-ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina pasta acini di pepe, stelline, or other small pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup whole milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs parsley, basil, pinch of nutmeg, additional cheese, cooked vegetables (peas, spinach), or protein (shredded chicken, bacon)
- Pros
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Comforting and nostalgic flavor
- Customizable with various add-ins
- Kid-friendly and family-approved
- Uses simple pantry-friendly ingredients
- Cons
- Can be high in calories and fat depending on ingredients
- Not suitable for gluten-free diets unless using gluten-free pasta
- May require frequent stirring to prevent sticking
Instructions
- Simmer the Broth:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Pastina:
- Add the pastina pasta to the simmering broth. Stir occasionally and cook according to package instructions, usually 5–7 minutes, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Creaminess:
- Lower the heat and stir in the milk or cream and butter. Continue stirring until the butter melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Incorporate Cheese:
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and incorporated. Adjust the consistency with a splash more milk if needed.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. For extra flavor, add fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs.
- Optional Additions:
- Stir in cooked vegetables (like peas or spinach) or protein (such as shredded chicken or bacon) for a heartier meal.