Magic Broccoli Pasta Recipe Everyone Will Love

Broccoli pasta stands as a vibrant, nutritious culinary delight that enhances simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal.

Green florets dance among twirled noodles, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that tantalize the senses.

Packed with incredible health benefits, this dish brings together comfort and wellness in one delectable plate.

Crisp broccoli provides a robust nutritional punch, complementing the soft, satisfying pasta perfectly.

Mediterranean-inspired cooking techniques elevate this humble combination into something truly spectacular.

Home cooks can easily master this recipe with minimal kitchen skills and maximum flavor impact.

The magic lies in balancing fresh ingredients and understanding fundamental cooking principles that make each bite memorable.

Tips for Al Dente Pasta and Crisp Veggies

• Slice Broccoli Strategically: Cut florets into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and better sauce absorption.
• Control Liquid Levels: Monitor broth and cream during cooking to prevent sauce from becoming too thick or watery, adjusting as needed.
• Cheese Melting Technique: Add Parmesan off the heat to prevent graininess and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Prevent Pasta Overcooking: Test pasta frequently during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain perfect al dente texture.
• Flavor Boosting Hack: Toast garlic briefly to enhance its nutty, aromatic qualities without burning, creating a more complex taste profile.

Storage Ideas for Broccoli Pasta Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and prevent absorbing other food odors.
• Microwave Reheating: Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or extra broth to restore moisture. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Stovetop Refresh: Revive cold pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking. Gently stir and warm for 3-5 minutes, ensuring even heating and maintaining the creamy texture.

Protein or Sides to Pair with This Green-Packed Pasta

• Wine Wonderland: Pair this creamy broccoli pasta with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness and complement the herb notes.
• Bread Buddy Boost: Serve alongside garlic cheese bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delectable sauce and add a satisfying crunch to your meal.
• Protein Power Partner: Add grilled chicken breast or seared shrimp on top to transform this vegetarian dish into a more substantial and protein-packed dinner option.
• Fresh Side Flair: Create a light mixed green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors.

Flavor Upgrades to Try With Broccoli Pasta

• Spicy Mediterranean Kick: Transform the dish by adding red pepper flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Protein Power Boost: Incorporate grilled chicken strips or crispy pancetta to elevate the protein content and add a savory depth to the pasta.
• Creamy Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and add roasted mushrooms and spinach for a rich, earthy vegetarian version that maintains the creamy texture.
• Nutty Herb Blend: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and swap dried herbs with fresh basil and thyme to create a more aromatic and crunchy pasta experience.

Why Broccoli Pasta Combines Freshness and Carbs Just Right

• Streamline Cooking Prep: By measuring and cutting ingredients beforehand, you'll create a stress-free cooking experience that saves time and reduces kitchen chaos.
• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe eliminates multiple dirty dishes by cooking pasta and broccoli together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze and simplifying the entire meal preparation.
• Creamy Comfort with Nutrition Boost: The combination of half and half, Parmesan cheese, and fresh broccoli delivers a rich, velvety sauce packed with vitamins and minerals, transforming a classic pasta dish into a wholesome meal.
• Quick Weeknight Lifesaver: From start to finish, this broccoli pasta takes around 20-25 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy families or professionals seeking a delicious, satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Bright and Savory Broccoli Pasta

• Pasta Shells: Small, cup-shaped pasta perfect for catching creamy sauce and holding broccoli pieces.
• Chicken Broth: Liquid base that adds depth of flavor and helps cook pasta.

• Butter: Provides rich, smooth base for sauce and helps develop flavor.
• Half and Half: Creates creamy texture and adds luxurious richness to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Salty, tangy cheese that melts beautifully and enhances overall taste.

• Broccoli Florets: Fresh, green vegetable that adds nutrition and texture to the pasta.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that brings depth and pungent flavor to the sauce.
• Onion Powder, Thyme, Oregano, Parsley: Dried herbs and spices that layer complex, savory notes.
• Salt: Essential seasoning that enhances all other flavors.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic element that balances the richness of the sauce.

How to Cook Pasta and Broccoli in One Easy Pot

Step 1: Awaken the Flavors

Heat a large skillet over medium warmth. Melt butter until it shimmers and dance with golden hints. Sprinkle minced garlic into the pan, letting its aroma fill your kitchen with excitement.

Step 2: Create a Flavor Symphony

Pour chicken broth and half and half into the skillet. Sprinkle in onion powder, thyme, salt, oregano, and parsley. Swirl everything together, creating a creamy liquid landscape.

Step 3: Introduce the Pasta

Bring the liquid to a rolling boil. Gently lower pasta shells into the bubbling mixture, ensuring they’re completely submerged. Cover partially and let the pasta dance and soften.

Step 4: Welcome the Broccoli

Six minutes before pasta finishes cooking, add broccoli florets. Stir occasionally, preventing any sneaky sticking to the pan bottom. Watch as the broccoli turns a vibrant green.

Step 5: Test for Perfection

Remove the lid and sample a pasta shell. It should be tender with a slight bite. If needed, continue cooking until it reaches your ideal texture.

Step 6: Final Flavor Flourish

Remove skillet from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and fold gently with a silicone spatula, creating a creamy, dreamy coating.

Step 7: Serve and Celebrate

Let the sauce thicken for a moment. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Pair with crispy garlic cheese bread. Dive into your delectable creation and savor every bite!

Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Italian-inspired broccoli pasta delivers a comforting symphony of flavors with minimal ingredients. Creamy parmesan, roasted garlic, and tender broccoli florets meld together to create a quick weeknight dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• ½ pound (226 grams) medium pasta shells
• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth

Dairy and Cheese:

• 4 tablespoons (56 grams) butter
• 1 ¼ cups (296 milliliters) half and half
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Seasonings and Extras:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Organize all ingredients and chop broccoli into uniform bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and preparation efficiency.
2. Heat a spacious skillet over medium temperature, gently melt butter until it becomes golden and fragrant, then sauté minced garlic for approximately 60 seconds.
3. Create a flavorful liquid base by incorporating chicken broth, half and half, and sprinkling onion powder, thyme, salt, oregano, and parsley. Whisk ingredients until smoothly integrated.
4. Introduce pasta shells into the simmering liquid, ensuring complete submersion. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover partially.
5. Follow package instructions for pasta cooking time, maintaining a consistent gentle bubble to prevent overcooking.
6. During the final six minutes of pasta preparation, carefully fold broccoli florets into the skillet, stirring periodically to prevent adherence and promote even heating.
7. Test pasta for precise tenderness by sampling a shell. Adjust cooking time if necessary, ensuring a perfectly al dente texture.
8. Remove skillet from heat source, drizzle fresh lemon juice, and delicately fold in Parmesan cheese using a soft spatula to create a creamy consistency.
9. Allow sauce to slightly thicken during a brief resting period. Optionally garnish with additional fresh parsley for enhanced visual appeal and serve alongside crispy cheese-topped garlic bread.

Notes

• Smart Ingredient Prep Saves Time by cutting broccoli into smaller pieces and measuring everything beforehand, ensuring a smooth cooking experience.
• Garlic Infusion creates a rich, aromatic base by gently sautéing minced garlic in melted butter, releasing its delightful flavor profile.
• Liquid Magic happens when chicken broth and half and half combine with herbs, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats every pasta shell.
• Strategic Broccoli Addition during the last 6 minutes of cooking keeps vegetables crisp, vibrant, and perfectly tender without becoming mushy.
• Cheese & Acid Finish elevates the dish with a burst of Parmesan’s salty richness and bright lemon juice, balancing the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Resting Moment allows the sauce to slightly thicken, creating a luxurious texture that clings perfectly to the pasta shells.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg