This oven baked Amish butter pasta bake is the kind of simple, cozy supper that saves the day when everyone is hungry and you want something warm without a lot of fuss. With just a handful of pantry and fridge staples, the pasta bakes up tender in a rich buttery cream sauce that feels old-fashioned and comforting, making it a lovely choice for busy weeknights or quiet family dinners.
Serve this pasta bake with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli to balance the richness. A basket of warm dinner rolls or garlic bread is always welcome for soaking up the buttery sauce, and if you want to round it out for a bigger meal, baked chicken or simple meatballs pair beautifully alongside.
Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Butter Pasta Bake
Servings: 6
Ingredients
12 ounces dry garganelli pasta
1 cup unsalted butter, cubed
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a cast iron baking pan or oven-safe skillet if needed.
2. Pour the dry garganelli pasta into the cast iron pan and spread it into an even layer.
3. Scatter the cubed butter evenly over the pasta so it melts throughout the dish as it bakes.
4. Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the pasta and butter, making sure the pasta is mostly covered with liquid.
5. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil, stir the pasta well, then return it to the oven uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes more, or until the pasta is tender and the top looks lightly golden.
7. Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken slightly, then spoon it onto plates and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Cheesy finish: If your family loves a little extra richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a more golden, cheesy crust.
Picky eater version: Keep the seasoning simple and serve as is, or stir in a small handful of mild shredded cheese after baking to make it even creamier and more kid-friendly.
Broth choice: Vegetable broth works well if that is what you have on hand, and it gives the dish a gentle savory flavor without changing the easy method.
Pasta tip: Garganelli holds the buttery sauce beautifully, but penne or ziti can stand in if needed. Just check for doneness and add a splash more broth if your pasta needs a little extra time in the oven.
Make it a meal: Stir in cooked chicken, peas, or sautéed mushrooms after the covered bake time if you want to stretch this simple pasta into a heartier one-pan supper.