Description
Creamy butter-simmered pasta coated in melted parmesan and topped with golden, crisp breadcrumbs. This one-pan dish is deeply savory, comfort-packed, and perfect for cozy nights without the cleanup.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
2 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing)
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (for topping)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until just fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Stir in dry macaroni, milk, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Stir in 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth.
5. Add 1 tablespoon butter at the end for a glossy finish. Stir to combine.
6. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon Parmesan, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.
7. Place skillet under broiler for 1-2 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives smoother texture than pre-shredded.
Stir regularly while simmering to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
For extra crunch, use panko for the topping and broil closely for a minute—watch it carefully.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-pan, Stovetop + Broiler
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: butter parmesan pasta, creamy one-pan pasta, mac and cheese skillet