Every time I make creamy broccoli pasta, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen. The smell of garlic wafting through the air, a pot bubbling quietly on the stoveit’s pure magic! This dish is trending, and folks can’t get enough of its cheesy goodness on TikTok and Pinterest.
This one-pot wonder combines tender broccoli, cozy noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce that will make any family dinner feel special. It’s like your grandma’s mac and cheese got a delicious upgrade, all in under 30 minutes. Full details in the blog!
Creamy Broccoli Pasta is an easy and satisfying meal featuring tender broccoli and pasta coated in a cheesy creamy sauce. This creamy broccoli pasta recipe is perfect for a quick dinner with cheesy broccoli noodles and easy creamy broccoli mac.
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz penne or rotini pasta
3 cups broccoli florets
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Warm the olive oil or butter in a large pot, then gently cook the minced garlic for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the pasta and broth, then bring the mixture to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer.
When the pasta is partly cooked, incorporate the broccoli florets and allow them to cook along with the pasta.
After the pasta becomes tender, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Add salt and pepper to your taste and serve the dish while hot.
Method:Stovetop
Nutrition
Calories:480
Fat:28g
Carbohydrates:45g
Fiber:4g
Protein:12g
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This creamy broccoli pasta is a delightful dish that effortlessly brings everyone together at the dinner table. It’s quick, cozy, and so satisfying that you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, maybe even thirds! The combination of tender pasta, vibrant broccoli florets, and a luscious creamy sauce makes it a hit among both kids and adults. It has that nostalgic taste that reminds you of home-cooked meals, all while being modern enough to keep the kids excited.
What really makes this dish shine is its adaptability. You can whip it up easily on a busy weeknight, making it a perfect choice for those hectic evenings when you need something comforting and filling. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, so you’ll have fewer dishes to tackle afterwardan absolute bonus for busy parents!
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s talk about the key players in this creamy creation. Each ingredient contributes to the delicious flavor and comforting texture that makes this dish so special:
Pasta: Opt for 8 oz of penne or rotiniboth hold the creamy sauce beautifully!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets not only add vibrant color but also a nutritious boost. You’ll need about 3 cups to brighten your meal.
Broth: Choose between vegetable or chicken broth for a flavorful base. It enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Heavy Cream: This is the secret to the dish’s creamy texture. Just a cup adds richness without feeling overly heavy.
Parmesan Cheese: A half-cup of this grated delight adds a salty, nutty flavor that pulls everything together.
Garlic, Olive Oil or Butter: These ingredients create a fragrant aromatic base. Don’t skip the garlicit’s where the cozy flavor begins!
Seasoning: A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors and balances the creaminess.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to dive into making this delicious meal? Here’s how you can whip it up in no time:
Sauté the Garlic: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Pasta and Broth: Toss in 8 oz of your chosen pasta along with 2 cups of broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Introduce the Broccoli: Halfway through the cooking time, stir in 3 cups of broccoli florets. This ensures they’re tender but still vibrant!
Mix in Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is tender (usually around 10-12 minutes), stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Season to Taste: Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy the smiles around your table!
Easy Customizations
This creamy broccoli pasta is quite flexible! Here are some fun tweaks to give it your personal touch:
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even canned beans for extra protein.
Veggie Variety: Want to sneak in more greens? Toss in spinach, peas, or even chopped peppers for added nutrition.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Spice It Up: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you’ve got at home or what your family loves!
How to Serve & Store
Serving this creamy broccoli pasta is as simple as dishing it out warm! It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re entertaining friends. Top it with a little extra Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper for that gourmet touch.
As for leftovers (if there are any), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully, but you might want to add a splash more cream or milk when warming it up to keep that luscious texture!
Storage Method
Duration
Refrigerator
3 days
Freezer (for best quality)
1 month
This creamy broccoli pasta is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings back fond memories while creating new ones with your family. Enjoy the cozy goodness and happy cooking!
Expert Says
For a truly satisfying creamy broccoli pasta, consider the nutritional benefits of incorporating whole-grain pasta. It not only enhances the dish’s fiber content, aiding digestion, but also provides a nuttier flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome family meal.
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The Long Road to Creamy Broccoli Pasta
After multiple attempts and a few too many overly cheesy disasters, I’ve finally perfected this creamy broccoli pasta. Each misstep taught me the importance of balance, leading to a dish that’s both satisfying and vibrant. Now, it’s a family favorite that brings smiles and full bellies around the dinner table.
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
In just 30 minutes, this creamy broccoli pasta recipe transforms into a heartwarming dish that fills your kitchen with delectable aromas. You’ll love how the cheesy broccoli noodles meld together in one pot, creating a cozy meal that delivers comfort in every bite. It’s like a warm hug from your favorite aunt, reminding us all that food truly brings us together.
Want to shake things up? Try adding some cooked chicken for extra protein or sprinkle in a dash of red pepper for a little heat. And remember, if you have leftovers, just pop them in the fridge. A splash of cream while reheating keeps the richness intactsomething I learned from my hectic family kitchen daysbecause who doesn’t love smooth, creamy noodles?
I’d love to hear how your family enjoys this dish! Did you grow up with a favorite pasta recipe that holds a special place in your heart? Share your stories or photos with me! Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next family gatheringbecause everyone deserves to savor that cozy, nostalgic feeling of shared meals around the table.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
