There’s nothing quite like the smell of garlic and butter inviting everyone to the dinner table. This CREAMY BROCCOLI PASTA is a warm hug in a bowl, and let me tell you, it’s become a family favorite because who could resist creamy pasta with crisp broccoli?
Imagine pasta coated in a luscious cream sauce, with tender broccoli adding that perfect bite. It’s like your grandma’s comforting pasta but ready in just 20 minutes! With simple everyday ingredients, you’ll find it’s made with pantry staples. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those greens without anyone knowing.
I started making this dish during the busy weeknights back in 2015, when my kids were little and I needed meals that were quick yet satisfying. One night, my daughter declared it the “yummiest pasta ever” while licking the plate. The secret? Finish cooking the pasta right in the sauce to soak up all that cheesy goodness. It’s a trick that keeps the flavors rich, and trust me, it works every time!
Enjoy a rich and comforting Creamy Broccoli Pasta that comes together effortlessly in one pot. This creamy broccoli pasta recipe is perfect for a quick meal, combining tender broccoli florets with a luscious, cheesy sauce reminiscent of broccoli cheddar pasta. Dive into this one pot broccoli pasta for an easy, cheesy broccoli noodles dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Warm the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat and gently cook the minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the pasta and broth, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to maintain a simmer.
About halfway through the pasta cooking time, fold in the broccoli florets to soften alongside the pasta.
When the pasta is cooked through and tender, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined and creamy.
Season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking, then serve immediately while warm.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cozy and Comforting: This creamy broccoli pasta brings back memories of warm family dinners, with its rich flavors and velvety texture.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without the fuss.
Healthy and Nutritious: Sneak in those greens! The broccoli adds wonderful nutrition while being delightful to eat.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will devour this dish. Cheese and creamwhat’s not to love?
Key Ingredients
Let’s gather our stars for this easy recipe:
Pasta: Use 8 oz of penne or rotini for that perfect bite.
Broccoli: 3 cups of fresh florets add nutrition and color.
Broth: Either vegetable or chicken broth brings depth to the flavor.
Cream and Cheese: 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan create that irresistible creaminess.
Garlic and Oil: 2 cloves of minced garlic sautéed in 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter provide a lovely aroma and taste.
How It Works Step-by-Step
In a large pot, heat your olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the pasta and broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer.
When the pasta is halfway done, stir in the broccoli florets. This keeps them bright and crisp!
Once the pasta is tender, mix in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy that creamy goodness!
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm. Get ready for the compliments!
Troubleshooting Tips
If you run into a hiccup while making your creamy broccoli pasta, here are some solutions:
Pasta too dry: If it seems thirsty, add a splash more broth to keep it creamy.
Overcooked broccoli: For crisp-tender broccoli, add it right in the middle of the pasta cooking time.
Too thick: Just stir in a bit of additional broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
Tweaks and Variations
Tweak
Modification
Add Protein
Include cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Make it Lighter
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese by half.
Vegetable Swaps
Substitute the broccoli with spinach or peas for a different flavor.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Here are some ways to enjoy your creamy broccoli pasta:
When to Serve: Perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner or a quick weeknight meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop!
Freezing: You can freeze it for up to a month. Just remember, it may be a bit thicker when reheating, so adding a splash of broth helps!
Nutrition Note
This creamy broccoli pasta is not only tasty but also quite balanced! Each serving is packed with nutrients from broccoli and is a great way to enjoy pasta without overdoing it. A delightful blend of comfort and nourishmentyou’re going to love how light and happy you feel after enjoying this dish!
Expert Says
When making creamy broccoli pasta, consider using whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients. The starch released while cooking the pasta helps emulsify the sauce, creating a silkier texture. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more satisfying and nutritious.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
The Journey to My Perfect Creamy Broccoli Pasta
After several attempts at balancing creaminess with a wholesome touch, I finally created this creamy broccoli pasta. The first batch ended up too watery, a lesson in patience and simmering. With each tweak, the flavors blossomed, and now, it’s a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight.
FAQs ( Creamy Broccoli Pasta )
What is the best pasta for this recipe?
For the creamiest results, use short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. These shapes hold onto the sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You can also use rotini or farfalle, but avoid delicate pastas that may not withstand the cooking process.
Can I add vegetables to my broccoli pasta?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach can enhance the nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so everything is tender and well-cooked together in the pot.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this meal dairy-free, substitute regular cheese with plant-based cheese alternatives. Also, use non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, in place of cream. Opt for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What is the best way to store leftover broccoli pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or water to revive the creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make pasta dry.
Can I use frozen broccoli for my recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well for this dish! Just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the pasta. It cooks quickly and can save you prep time without sacrificing nutrition.
Conclusion
This CREAMY BROCCOLI PASTA is every bit as cozy as it sounds. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a warm, creamy dish that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. You’ll love how it turns outrich, delicious, and ready to devour!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding some grilled chicken or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor. And if you have leftovers, simply reheat with a splash of broth to keep that creamy texture. It’s a little trick I picked up from my aunt’s kitchen; trust me, it works like a charm!
I’d love to hear how this dish turns out for you! Did you grow up with something similar in your kitchen? Share your photos or thoughts below, and remember to save this recipe for those busy weeknights. Happy cooking, dear friends!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
