As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of pastina to cozy up with. Whether you’re in need of a pick-me-up after a long day or just looking for a satisfying meal to end your evening, these 20 mouthwatering pastina recipes are sure to hit the spot.
From classic combinations like butter and Parmesan to more adventurous pairings like lemon and herbs, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of ideas to suit every taste. And don’t worry if you’re not familiar with this Italian staple – we’ll guide you through each recipe step-by-step, so even the most inexperienced cooks can achieve delicious results.
So go ahead, grab a spoon, and let’s dive into the world of pastina! In this article, we’ll explore everything from creamy sauces to hearty soups, and share our top 20 favorite recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
Classic Pastina with Butter and Parmesan
Pastina is a traditional Italian comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This classic recipe combines simple ingredients with rich flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the butter and toss until melted and well combined.
3. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until coated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pastina with Peas and Bacon
This comforting pasta dish combines tender pastina, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a rich creamy sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup (115g) fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add butter to the same skillet and sauté the peas for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the peas.
5. Add cooked pastina to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy pea mixture.
6. Stir in crispy bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina Soup with Chicken and Vegetables
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and pasta to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pastina pasta (small shells or elbows)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and cooked chicken back to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Add the pastina pasta and cook according to package instructions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Pastina with Spinach
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of garlic butter with the nutrients of spinach, making it a perfect meal for a cozy night in. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina pasta
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the garlic butter mixture. Cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and reserved pasta cooking water in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Tomato Sauce and Fresh Basil
This heartwarming recipe is a staple of Italian cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting meal. Tender pastina (small pasta shapes) is cooked in a rich tomato sauce, finished with the bright flavor of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pastina with tomato sauce. Stir in chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Pastina Bake with Mozzarella
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of pastina, mozzarella cheese, and a hint of garlic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pastina (Italian pasta stars)
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pastina according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pastina, milk, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish; sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pastina with Lemon and Herbs
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. The combination of lemon, herbs, and garlic adds a bright and refreshing twist to traditional pastina.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and cook the pastina according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Once the pastina is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with the lemon mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina Carbonara with Pancetta
This recipe elevates the traditional carbonara by adding tender pastina pasta to the rich and creamy sauce made with pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina pasta
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pastina pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add cooked pastina pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with egg mixture.
5. Stir in cooked pancetta and chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Mushrooms and Thyme
This classic Italian dish is a comforting blend of tender pasta, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant thyme. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the dried thyme and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked pastina with the mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina Risotto with Parmesan and Peas
A classic Italian comfort dish, this creamy risotto is made with pastina (small pasta) instead of Arborio rice. The result is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the broth to a simmer in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the pastina and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add 1 cup of warmed broth to the pasta mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1-cup increments, and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastina is cooked and creamy.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pastina with Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil
This comforting Italian dish combines tender pastina pasta with a rich and aromatic sauce, featuring the deep flavor of roasted garlic and the subtle taste of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina pasta
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook the pastina pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Squeeze the roasted garlic into the oil, mashing with a spoon to release its creamy pulp.
4. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, whisking to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked pastina pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlicky sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pastina and Egg Drop Soup
Pastina and Egg Drop Soup is a comforting and classic Italian dish that combines the simplicity of pasta with the richness of egg drop soup. This recipe brings together two beloved soups to create a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Pastina (small pasta shapes, such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth and water to a boil.
2. Add the Pastina and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3. While the pasta cooks, whisk together the eggs in a small bowl.
4. Slowly pour the whisked eggs into the boiling soup while stirring constantly with a spoon.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pastina with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian combination of creamy pesto sauce, al dente pasta, and sweet cherry tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 pint (280g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Combine the cooked pasta with the pesto-tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Sautéed Onions and Butter
This comforting Italian dish is a staple in many households. With its simplicity and rich flavor, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina (Italian small pasta)
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid and then drain the pasta.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and lightly caramelized (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Add the cooked pastina to the skillet with the onions. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta cooking liquid if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Serve hot, topped with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and a sprinkle of salt.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Ricotta and Honey
A classic Italian comfort food, Pastina with Ricotta and Honey is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a soothing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Pastina according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese and honey. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked Pastina to the ricotta mixture and toss until pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pastina with Broccoli and Cheddar
This comforting pasta dish is a perfect blend of tender broccoli, creamy sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the broccoli and whisk to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pastina and broccoli mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Sausage and Peppers
This comforting Italian-inspired dish combines sweet sausage, bell peppers, onions, and pasta in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 8 oz Pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked Pastina to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sausage and pepper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère
This comforting Italian-inspired dish is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. Tender pastina pasta is tossed with caramelized onions, nutty Gruyère cheese, and a hint of thyme, making for a delightful weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina pasta
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 1/4 cup (60g) Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 tsp (5ml) dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pastina pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add olive oil, Gruyère cheese, and thyme to the skillet with caramelized onions. Stir until melted and combined.
5. Combine cooked pastina pasta with the onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, topped with additional grated Gruyère cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pastina with Roasted Butternut Squash
A warm and comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring roasted butternut squash, onions, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. Pastina (Italian small-shaped pasta)
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs.)
– 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash, cut into 1-inch cubes, with the chopped onions, and olive oil in a baking dish until tender, about 45 minutes.
3. Cook the Pastina according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted squash mixture and cooked pasta. Toss gently to combine.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pastina with Shrimp and Lemon Butter
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional pasta with the brightness of lemon and the indulgence of succulent shrimp. The result is a light and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon butter sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a chilly night with these 20 comforting pastina recipes. From classic combinations like butter and Parmesan to creamy pasta bakes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious dishes. Try pairing peas and bacon with a rich butter sauce or adding roasted garlic and olive oil for a savory twist. For a lighter option, opt for a lemony herby sauce or a refreshing tomato sauce with fresh basil. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe to warm up your meal routine.
