Tiny star-shaped pasta cooked in a simple broth until creamy and comforting, then finished with butter and parmesan. This cozy Italian classic is quick, easy, and perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Cook the pasta: In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups chicken stock to a boil. Add 1 cup pastina pastaand cook according to package directions, stirring frequently so it doesn’t stick.
4 cups chicken stock, 1 cup pastina pasta
Add the butter and cheese: Once pasta is tender, reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 tablespoons butter and 1/2 cup parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
2 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
salt and pepper
Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately while warm.
Notes
Add a little extra parmesan to the top as a garnish.
Stir frequently to prevent the pastina from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Taste the broth before adding salt; some store-bought broths are already salty.
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
If you like a looser texture, add more broth just before serving