Save A comforting, creamy pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, ditalini pasta, and a touch of Parmesan&mdashall made in a single pot for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Vegetables: 250 g (9 oz) ditalini pasta, 2 medium zucchini, diced, 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- Dairy & Cheese: 40 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving, 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Spices & Herbs: 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 23 minutes until translucent.
- Step 2:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the diced zucchini and cook for 34 minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 4:
- Pour in the ditalini pasta and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 810 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, uncovered, for 23 minutes more until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
- Step 7:
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save 
Save This simple one pot creamy zucchini ditalini is comforting and quick to make.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I substitute ditalini pasta with another type?
Yes, small shells or elbow macaroni are excellent alternatives that cook similarly and hold the sauce well.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?
Stir occasionally while simmering and ensure there is enough vegetable broth to cover the pasta evenly.
- → What can I add for extra protein?
Cooked cannellini beans or shredded rotisserie chicken enhance protein content without compromising flavor.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan alternatives, and replace butter with olive oil to keep it plant-based.
- → What wine pairs well with this creamy pasta?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy texture and bright zucchini flavors beautifully.