Description

Creamy Italian Pastina is a comforting and simple dish made with tiny pasta, butter, and cheese. It’s a classic Italian childhood favorite that’s quick, creamy, and delicious.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup pastina pasta
3 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste (optional)

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil.
Add the pastina and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Turn off the heat and stir in the butter until melted.
Add the milk or cream and stir until the mixture becomes creamy.
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese if preferred.

Notes

For extra flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.
Adjust creaminess by adding more or less milk.
Can be made with tiny star or dot-shaped pasta if pastina is unavailable.
Add a scrambled egg while stirring for a richer version.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 35mg