Creamy Italian Pastina Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Italian Pastina is a warm, comforting dish often referred to as “Italian penicillin” for its soothing properties. This creamy pasta, made with tiny star-shaped pasta and enriched with butter, milk, and cheese, is a nostalgic favorite in Italian households. Whether served as a simple meal for children or a cozy bowl on a chilly day, it’s incredibly quick, satisfying, and soul-warming.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastina pasta (acini di pepe or stelline)water or chicken brothwhole milkunsalted buttergrated Parmesan cheesesaltpepper (optional)egg (optional, for added richness)

directions

Bring water or chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan.

Add the pastina and a pinch of salt. Cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk, butter, and grated Parmesan.

Cook for a few more minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture is creamy.

(Optional) For a richer version, beat an egg in a separate bowl, then slowly mix it into the hot pastina while stirring constantly to avoid scrambling.

Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of cream for extra decadence.

Stir in cooked peas or carrots for added nutrition.

Top with crispy pancetta or bacon bits for texture and flavor.

Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste.

Make it sweet by omitting cheese and pepper, and adding a bit of sugar and cinnamon.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring until creamy again.

FAQs

What is pastina?

Pastina refers to tiny pasta shapes, commonly used in soups or as comfort food in Italian cuisine.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, other small pasta like orzo or couscous can be used, though texture will vary slightly.

Is the egg necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds richness but can be left out for a simpler version.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and butter, and omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Why is my pastina too thick?

It continues to absorb liquid as it sits. Just stir in a little more milk to loosen it up.

Can I use water instead of broth?

Yes, but broth adds more flavor. Adjust seasoning if using only water.

Is this dish suitable for toddlers?

Absolutely! It’s soft, mild, and easy to digest.

Can I freeze pastina?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat with extra milk and stir well.

Can I add protein?

Yes, stir in shredded chicken, a poached egg, or even soft tofu for added protein.

What kind of cheese works best?

Parmesan is classic, but you can experiment with mozzarella, fontina, or ricotta.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Pastina is the definition of comfort in a bowl. Simple, quick, and deeply satisfying, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something cozy, this pastina recipe is sure to hit the spot every time.

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