Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe – A One-Pot Delight for Easy, Delicious Meals
This Creamy Broccoli Pasta recipe combines tender pasta shells with a rich, buttery Garlic Parmesan sauce and plenty of broccoli for a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
With a hint of lemon juice to enhance the flavours, this one-pot meal is a family favourite that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Serve it up with a side of garlic bread or cheddar biscuits, and watch everyone eagerly dig in. This recipe is perfect for those who crave comfort food that’s quick, easy, and full of flavour.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Cooking creamy broccoli pasta couldn’t be easier, and the results are always delicious. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables while enjoying a creamy, hearty sauce. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again.
Ingredients Needed
To make this delicious creamy broccoli pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic brings a savoury aroma and enhances the sauce’s overall flavour.
- Chicken broth – Provides a flavourful base.
- Half and half – Adds creaminess without overwhelming heaviness.
- Pasta shells – Medium pasta shells hold onto the sauce perfectly.
- Seasonings – Onion powder, dried thyme, salt, oregano, and parsley bring out the flavours.
- Broccoli florets – For added nutrition and colour.
- Lemon juice – A touch of acidity for balance.
- Parmesan cheese – Grated from a block for smooth, melt-in-your-mouth creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Begin by melting butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic, cooking for about one minute until it’s fragrant.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and half and half, then add the seasonings. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil, letting the flavours meld.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Cook
Add pasta shells to the skillet, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the liquid. Cover partially and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally. During the last five minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets so they cook until tender-crisp.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Lemon Juice
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness, and gently fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will thicken the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture.
Tips for the Creamiest Broccoli Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don’t overheat the sauce: High heat can cause the cheese to separate, so add it after removing the pan from the burner.
- Consider pasta alternatives: You can substitute shells with similar-sized pastas like fusilli or bowtie, following package instructions for cook times.
- Add chicken for extra protein: To make this meal heartier, you can add diced chicken breast, cooked separately before mixing it in.
FAQs
What other pasta types work well in this recipe?
Similar-sized pasta like fusilli, rotini, or bowtie hold onto the sauce nicely. Adjust the cooking time based on package instructions.
Can I make this with a plant-based option?
Absolutely! Substitute the half and half with a creamy plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Definitely. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach can add more variety and nutrients to the dish.
How long can I store creamy broccoli pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick lunch or dinner.
How do I avoid a grainy sauce?
Grate cheese from a block and add it only after removing the skillet from heat to prevent graininess caused by high heat.
Storing and Reheating
For the best flavour and texture, store your creamy broccoli pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
The sauce may thicken slightly upon reheating, but it remains delicious and creamy. For a quick reheating option, simply pop it in the microwave.
Tools You’ll Need
- Measuring Spoons – For accurately adding seasonings.
- Box Grater – To easily grate cheese.
- Large Skillet – A 10-inch skillet with a lid works well for this recipe.
- Pasta Shells – Look for quality brands to ensure good texture.
- Garlic Twister – Minces fresh garlic quickly for the best flavour.
Related Recipes
For more delicious, comforting dishes, try these recipes next:
- Chicken Spinach Pasta – Tender chicken and spinach in a creamy sauce.
- Tuscan Chicken Pasta – A flavourful combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy pasta.
- Baked Potato Soup – A comforting, rich soup topped with bacon and chives.
- Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole – A hearty, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners.
- Chicken Corn Chowder – A creamy, filling soup with a blend of corn, potatoes, and chicken.
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For verified reference links:
- Broccoli Nutrition
- Benefits of Garlic
- Pasta Types and Cooking Times
- How to Avoid Grainy Cheese Sauce
- Vegetarian and Vegan Pasta Tips