Creamy Parmesan Pastina Soup – The 15-Minute, One-Pot Dinner You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

The recipe is flexible, so you can adjust the broth quantity depending on whether you prefer a thicker pasta dish or a more soup-like consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Broth

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Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into a medium saucepan.

Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the broth to a gentle boil.

Using broth instead of plain water gives the pasta a deeper flavor as it cooks.

If you prefer a lighter taste, choose low-sodium broth.

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Step 2: Add the Pasta

Once the broth begins boiling, add the small pasta.

Stir gently to prevent the pieces from sticking together.

Reduce the heat slightly and allow the pasta to simmer.

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Most small pasta shapes cook in approximately 7–10 minutes, although cooking times vary.

Check the package instructions for guidance.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Powder

Sprinkle the garlic powder into the simmering broth.

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Stir until evenly distributed.

The garlic adds a subtle savory flavor without requiring chopping or additional preparation.

If you enjoy a stronger garlic taste, you can increase the quantity slightly.

Step 4: Stir in the Butter

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When the pasta is almost tender, add the butter.

Stir gently until it melts into the broth.

The butter gives the soup a richer texture and helps balance the savory flavor.

At this stage, the pasta should be soft but not falling apart.

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Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Once the pasta is fully cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat.

Allow the bubbling to settle for a few moments.

Gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan while stirring continuously.

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Adding the cheese off the heat helps prevent clumping.

The Parmesan will blend with the starchy broth and melted butter, creating a lightly creamy consistency.

If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of warm broth or water.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

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Ladle the creamy pasta soup into bowls.

Finish with extra Parmesan, black pepper, or chopped parsley if desired.

Serve while warm.

The pasta will continue absorbing liquid as it sits, so this dish is best enjoyed shortly after cooking.