Name: Easy Pastina (Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup dry pastina pasta; 3 cups chicken broth; 2-3 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced; 2 tbsp salted butter; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

Easy pastina is a creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This simple dish combines tender tiny pasta with garlic, butter, and parmesan for a rich, soothing flavor. It’s ideal for busy nights or when you need some cozy, homemade goodness.

A close-up of a spoonful of creamy, pale yellow risotto with small black pepper flakes mixed throughout, held above a white bowl filled with more of the same risotto. The texture looks soft and slightly sticky, with the grains visible and clinging together. The background has a soft focus, showing the white marbled surface underneath the bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup dry pastina pasta
3 cups chicken broth

2-3 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tbsp salted butter

1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Add the pastina and chicken broth to a small pot or saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil and stir often until the pasta is cooked to your liking and the broth is almost all absorbed.
Step 2: Turn the heat to low and add the parmesan cheese, salted butter, and finely minced garlic. Stir for a few minutes until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For a saucier texture, add extra chicken broth as desired. Make sure the garlic is finely minced and cooks thoroughly to avoid overpowering the dish.

Step 3: Serve immediately, optionally topping with extra butter and parmesan cheese for added richness.

Tips & Variations

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to brighten the flavor.
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk in step 2.

Storage

Store leftover pastina in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a little extra broth or water to loosen the texture, stirring until heated through. Avoid microwaving directly without adding liquid to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

A close-up of a bowl filled with creamy risotto, showing one main layer of soft, light golden rice grains cooked to a smooth texture. The top surface is sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and dotted with small pats of melted butter creating shiny golden pools. There are small black pepper flakes spread evenly over the risotto, adding contrast. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. The background is softly blurred with light neutral tones. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable or beef broth depending on your preference. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.

How do I prevent the garlic from becoming too strong?

Finely mince the garlic and cook it gently over low heat with the butter so it softens without burning. This mellows the flavor and keeps it from overpowering the dish.