Stellini Pasta with Butter and Mozzarella Cheese – Easy Italian Comfort Food Recipe
Stellini Pasta with Butter and Mozzarella Cheese is the ultimate simple pasta recipe, loved for its comforting texture, mild cheesy flavor, and quick preparation. Made with tiny star-shaped pasta, creamy butter, and soft melted mozzarella, this dish is perfect for kids’ meals, easy dinners, or soothing comfort food when you want something warm and satisfying.
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Why Stellini Pasta with Butter and Mozzarella Is So Popular
- Quick and easy pasta recipe
- Made with minimal ingredients
- Perfect comfort food for kids and adults
- Mild, creamy, and not overpowering
- Ideal as a light main dish or side dish
- Budget-friendly and pantry-based
This dish proves that simple Italian pasta recipes can be incredibly delicious.
What Is Stellini Pasta?
Stellini pasta is a small, star-shaped Italian pasta traditionally used in soups and broths. Its tiny size makes it perfect for soft, buttery pasta dishes and a favorite in Italian family cooking, especially for children. When combined with butter and mozzarella, stellini creates a creamy, comforting pasta bowl that feels nostalgic and nourishing.
Ingredients for Stellini Pasta with Butter and Mozzarella
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup stellini pasta
- 4 cups water or light chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or diced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Splash of warm milk or broth
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Garlic powder
- Drizzle of olive oil
These additions help customize the dish while keeping it simple and comforting.
How to Make Stellini Pasta with Butter and Mozzarella – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Stellini Pasta
Bring water or broth to a boil. Add salt, then stir in the stellini pasta. Cook according to package directions until just tender. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy pasta.
Step 2: Drain and Reserve Liquid
Drain the pasta, reserving 2–3 tablespoons of cooking liquid to adjust creaminess later.
Step 3: Add Butter
Return the hot pasta to the pot. Add butter and stir gently until fully melted and evenly coating the stellini.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella Cheese
Remove from heat and add mozzarella cheese. Stir gently, adding a splash of reserved liquid if needed, until the cheese becomes soft and lightly melty.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Season with black pepper if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Tips for the Best Stellini Pasta Recipe
- Cook stellini al dente to maintain texture
- Add cheese off the heat to prevent stringiness
- Stir gently to keep the pasta shape intact
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melt
- Serve immediately for maximum creaminess
Flavor Variations and Keyword-Rich Ideas
Creamy Stellini Pasta
Add warm milk or a splash of cream for a richer texture.
Parmesan Butter Pasta
Mix in grated Parmesan for deeper umami flavor.
Garlic Butter Stellini
Add garlic powder or sautéed garlic in butter.
Healthy Stellini Pasta
Use whole-grain stellini and reduce butter slightly.
Protein Boost Version
Serve with grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, or soft scrambled eggs.
Nutritional Benefits
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 520mg
This dish offers a balance of energy, protein, and comfort, making it ideal for light meals and recovery days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Stellini Pasta with Butter and Mozzarella Cheese:
- As a standalone comfort meal
- Alongside vegetable soup
- With roasted vegetables
- Paired with grilled chicken or fish
- As a kid-friendly dinner option
Storage and Reheating
- Best enjoyed fresh
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth
- Avoid overheating to keep cheese smooth
Why This Simple Pasta Recipe Works
This dish highlights the beauty of minimalist Italian cooking—few ingredients, gentle flavors, and comforting textures. It’s a reminder that butter, pasta, and cheese can create something deeply satisfying without complexity.
Final Thoughts
Stellini Pasta with Butter and Mozzarella Cheese is a timeless comfort food recipe that’s easy, cozy, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for kids, recovering from a long day, or craving something warm and familiar, this dish delivers every time.
Simple ingredients. Gentle flavors. Pure comfort in a bowl. ⭐🍝🧀