You know those evenings when you’re standing in front of your pantry, hoping inspiration jumps out at you? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I reached for ditalini pasta—those cute little tubes just waiting to be turned into something cozy and satisfying. The problem? Most recipes treat them like they’re only meant for soup.
This ditalini pasta recipe changes the game. It’s quick to make, uses ingredients you probably already have, and comes together in a way that makes everyone at the table pause for that first “mmm.” Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal for unexpected guests, this one checks all the boxes for comfort, ease, and flavor.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to make it yourself—from simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions to creative tips and storing leftovers. Let’s make dinner a little easier—and a lot more delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Ditalini Pasta Recipe
This ditalini pasta recipe is the kind of meal you turn to when you want something warm, comforting, and easy without a lot of fuss. It’s one of those reliable dishes that feels like home—simple to make, packed with flavor, and just the right kind of cozy. Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or just pulling together a quick dinner for yourself, this recipe brings a little joy to your plate without taking up your whole evening.
Here’s why I think you’re going to love it just as much as we do:
Quick and Weeknight‑Ready – This recipe comes together in about 25 minutes from start to finish. No long prep, no fancy steps—just simple, satisfying cooking.
Pantry‑Friendly Ingredients – You probably already have most of what you need: pasta, canned tomatoes, broth, and some dried herbs. It’s a great go‑to for those “what’s for dinner?” days.
Perfect for All Ages – Ditalini is small, fun to eat, and easy for little hands to manage. It’s a family‑friendly favorite in our house that even picky eaters enjoy.
Customizable for Any Occasion – Want to make it heartier? Stir in some cooked chicken or add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese. Looking for a picnic‑style twist? Turn it into a cold ditalini pasta salad the next day.
Great for Leftovers – It stores beautifully and tastes just as good when reheated, making it perfect for packed lunches or no‑effort dinners later in the week.
Comforting and Flavorful – With garlic, tomato, Parmesan, and fresh basil, every bite is full of familiar, comforting flavor. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
This ditalini pasta recipe really does check all the boxes: it’s easy, flexible, and full of flavor you’ll look forward to. So now that you’re excited to try it, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to bring it all together.
What You Need to Make This Easy Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Before we get cooking, let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this ditalini pasta recipe. The beauty of this dish is in how simple and flexible it is—you can keep it classic or play around with a few extras. Everything here works together to build rich flavor in a short amount of time, and the ingredients are the kind you likely already have tucked away in your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- 12 oz ditalini pasta
These small, tube-shaped noodles are perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce. They’re also super fun to eat! - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Used to sauté the garlic and bring the aromatics to life while adding a silky finish to the sauce. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
Adds warmth and depth—the kind of flavor that fills the kitchen and draws everyone in. - ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Brings a gentle, cozy heat without overpowering the dish. Totally optional if you’re cooking for kids. - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Adds a concentrated, slow-simmered flavor that gives the sauce more body and a rich tomato base. - 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
This is the heart of the sauce—chunky, juicy, and full of rustic flavor. - 1 cup vegetable broth
Helps loosen the sauce and makes it easier for those little pasta tubes to soak up flavor. - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
A no-fuss blend of dried herbs that brings everything together in just the right way. - ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Brings out the best in every ingredient. Don’t forget to salt your pasta water too! - ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Adds just a hint of boldness to round out the flavors. - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Melts into the sauce for a creamy, salty touch that ties it all together. - ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Adds freshness and a pop of color just before serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- Shredded rotisserie chicken – Adds protein and makes it a more filling meal (perfect for ditalini pasta recipes with chicken).
- Chopped spinach or kale – Toss it in at the end for a little green and extra texture.
- White beans – Great for a pasta salad twist or to give it more heartiness without meat.
Pro Tip: Want to switch up the vibe? Add oregano and a pinch of cinnamon for a Greek-inspired version, or stir in chili flakes and chopped parsley for something with a Mediterranean kick.
Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s roll up our sleeves and start cooking this comforting, flavorful meal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Cooking this ditalini pasta recipe feels just as comforting as sitting down to enjoy it. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that brings a little joy to the kitchen without taking all day. Here’s how to bring it all together—step by step.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1- Boil the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—it should taste just a bit like the sea. Add the ditalini and cook until just barely tender—about 1 minute less than the package says. Drain and set aside, but don’t rinse!
2- Sauté the garlic and red pepper.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
3- Add the tomato paste.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 full minute. This gives it time to caramelize and deepen in flavor. You’ll notice the color darken slightly—that’s what you want.
4- Pour in the tomatoes and broth.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (juices and all) along with the vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes, giving it an occasional stir, until the sauce thickens slightly and comes together.
5- Combine pasta and sauce.
Add the cooked ditalini straight into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to coat every piece. Let it cook together for another 1–2 minutes so the pasta can absorb some of that delicious tomato base.
6- Finish with cheese and basil.
Turn off the heat. Mix in the Parmesan while the sauce is still warm, letting it melt in and bring everything together with a creamy finish. Fold in the fresh basil last—it should stay bright and fragrant.
7- Taste and adjust.
Give it a quick taste and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Then, serve it up hot with extra Parmesan on top and maybe a little drizzle of olive oil if you’re feeling fancy.
This is one of those recipes where the cooking smells alone will bring people to the kitchen asking what’s for dinner. And once you take that first bite, you’ll know it was worth every step. Up next? Let’s talk about ways to customize it and make it even more your own.
Chef Tips and Easy Variations for Ditalini Pasta Recipes
Once you’ve got this ditalini pasta recipe down, you’ll see how easy it is to make it your own. Below are some of my favorite tips to help you get even better results and ideas to switch things up depending on what’s in your fridge or what you’re craving.
Pro Tips to Get It Just Right
- Undercook the pasta slightly – Ditalini cooks fast, so pull it off the heat while it’s still firm in the center. The rest of the cooking happens as it gently simmers in the sauce, soaking up all that flavor.
- Save a little pasta water – A splash of the starchy water can loosen the sauce just enough if it thickens too much while sitting.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning – Simple ingredients shine best when seasoned well. Taste as you go and adjust to bring everything into balance.
- Use a large skillet – More surface area helps the sauce reduce faster and coat the pasta evenly.
Creative Variations to Try
- Creamy ditalini pasta recipe version – Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream right before serving for a rich, velvety texture.
- Make it meaty – Toss in browned ground turkey or shredded chicken for a heartier twist (great for those exploring ditalini pasta recipes with chicken).
- Go veggie-forward – Sauté chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the garlic for a veggie-packed option.
- Add a crunchy topping – Toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil and Italian herbs make a great finishing touch.
- Herb swap – Out of basil? Try chopped parsley, thyme, or oregano for a new layer of flavor.
This dish truly grows with your creativity—and your pantry. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Now, let’s talk about the best ways to serve this cozy bowl of goodness.
Serving Ideas for Your Ditalini Pasta Recipe
There’s something comforting about a bowl of warm pasta that brings everyone to the table with a smile. This ditalini pasta recipe is as versatile as it is satisfying, making it perfect for casual nights or a more dressed-up dinner.
How to Serve It Just Right
Weeknight family dinner – Scoop into deep bowls and serve with warm garlic bread and a tossed green salad.
Pasta bar night – Set out toppings like extra cheese, chopped herbs, and sautéed veggies so everyone can build their own bowl.
Lunch prep hero – Pack it in meal-prep containers with roasted broccoli or snap peas for a no-stress lunch you’ll actually look forward to.
Turn it into a salad – Chill the pasta, toss it with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh ditalini pasta salad.
Soup and pasta combo – Pair with a light soup like broth-based vegetable or minestrone for a cozy two-course meal.
Holiday buffet side – It’s a crowd-pleaser on any potluck table—just keep extra Parmesan nearby!
Whether you’re spooning it into bowls or serving it family-style, this dish fits any table and any crowd. But what about leftovers? Don’t worry—we’ve got that covered too.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Ditalini Pasta
One of my favorite things about this ditalini pasta recipe is how well it holds up the next day. With just a little care, your leftovers will taste just as cozy and delicious as they did fresh off the stove.
How to Store It Properly
- Refrigerate – Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for about 4 days when stored in a sealed container.
- Freeze – Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags (lay bags flat for space-saving storage). Freeze for up to 2 months.
Best Ways to Reheat
- On the stovetop – Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, then warm over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.
- In the microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a teaspoon of water, cover loosely, and reheat in short bursts (about 45 seconds at a time), stirring in between.
- Avoid overcooking – Reheat only until hot. Leaving it on the heat too long can cause the pasta to lose its bite.
With these tips, dinner can be ready in minutes—even when you’re reheating! Coming up next, we’ll wrap up the key takeaways from this recipe and answer a few helpful FAQs to keep you feeling confident in the kitchen.
More Pasta Recipes You May Love
If you enjoyed this ditalini pasta recipe, here are a couple more comforting pasta dishes worth adding to your weekly menu:
- Beefaroni Recipe – A classic baked pasta favorite with beef and sauce in every bite
- Pastalaya Recipe – A flavorful twist on jambalaya with pasta, perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals
Easy Ditalini Pasta Recipe You’ll Crave Again
Equipment
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon or colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 oz ditalini pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
Optional Add‑Ins:
- 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1 cup canned white beans drained and rinsed
Instructions
- Boil salted water and cook ditalini 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute, letting it darken.
- Add diced tomatoes, broth, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce; stir and let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan, then fold in fresh basil.
- Serve hot with extra cheese and your favorite side dish.
Notes
For best results, cook the pasta just shy of al dente so it can finish in the sauce. Use vegetarian Parmesan if needed for dietary preferences.Key Takeaways
Here’s a quick recap of what makes this ditalini pasta recipe such a keeper:
- Quick to prepare and full of comforting flavor
- Uses pantry staples and everyday ingredients
- Great for weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or sharing with friends and family
- Easy to customize with add-ins or variations
- Stores and reheats well without losing texture
Simple, satisfying, and made for real life—this dish brings everyone to the table.
Ditalini Pasta Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Have a few questions about making this ditalini pasta recipe your own? You’re not alone! Here are some helpful answers based on common kitchen moments.
Can I make this ditalini pasta recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap in a gluten-free version of ditalini or small elbow pasta. Be sure to test a minute or two early—gluten-free varieties can soften quickly.
My sauce feels a little thin. What can I do?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to naturally reduce and thicken. You can also stir in a bit of grated Parmesan to give it a richer texture that clings to the pasta.
Can I double this ditalini pasta recipe for guests?
Definitely! Just use a larger pot or Dutch oven to avoid splatter, double all the ingredients, and let the sauce simmer a few minutes longer to heat through evenly.
Is this dish spicy?
It has just a gentle warmth from the red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust to taste—use less for a milder version or add a pinch more if you like a little extra kick.
I only have whole canned tomatoes—can I still use them?
Absolutely. Crush them with clean hands or cut them up right in the can using kitchen shears. It adds a rustic texture that still works beautifully with the ditalini pasta.
What’s a fun way to use leftovers?
Chill the pasta and turn it into a quick ditalini pasta salad recipe! Toss with a bit of olive oil, diced veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers, and top with feta or mozzarella for a cool, flavorful twist.
Still thinking about what to make next? Let’s wrap things up with a quick and friendly send-off in the conclusion.
Conclusion
There’s just something special about a recipe that brings comfort without complication—and this ditalini pasta recipe does exactly that. It’s simple, cozy, and filled with the kind of flavor that brings everyone to the table with happy forks and full hearts.
If you give it a try, I’d love to know how it turned out for you! Leave a review below and share your favorite add-ins or how you made it your own—it’s always a joy to hear how these dishes come to life in your kitchen.
