If you are craving something that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavors, this Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender pasta shells wrapped in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce, dotted generously with vibrant, crisp broccoli. Each bite perfectly balances richness and brightness, making it an irresistible dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. This recipe blends simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the key to creating the perfect balance of creaminess, garlic punch, and fresh green goodness. Each component plays an important role in delivering the texture, taste, and color that makes this dish so special.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds a smooth richness and helps build the sauce’s silky base.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Packs a fragrant, savory punch that wakes up every bite.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Introduces a subtle depth of flavor and keeps the sauce light.
- Half and half (1 ¼ cups): Creates the creamy texture without being too heavy.
- Medium pasta shells (½ lb.): Their cup-like shape is perfect for catching and holding the sauce.
- Onion powder (¼ teaspoon): Adds a hint of sweetness that complements the garlic.
- Dried thyme (¼ teaspoon): Offers a mild, earthy aroma to the sauce.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Brings a subtle herbal note that complements the broccoli.
- Dried parsley (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild green flavor and wonderful fragrance.
- Broccoli florets (3 ½ cups, uncooked): Provides crunch, vibrant color, and fresh vegetable flavor.
- Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Brightens the sauce and balances the richness beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated (¾ cup): Infuses salty, nutty goodness that melts into the sauce perfectly.
- Optional fresh parsley for garnish: Adds that final fresh, bright touch on top.
- Optional garlic bread with cheese: A perfect side to help scoop up every last bit of creamy sauce.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the medium pasta shells until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. The shells’ shape is perfect for capturing that dreamy sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it gently until fragrant and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial to infuse the base with rich aromatic flavor without burning the garlic.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring well to combine. Sprinkle in the onion powder, dried thyme, salt, dried oregano, and dried parsley. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This helps develop flavor while thickening the sauce just enough to coat the pasta.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets directly to the simmering sauce. Cover the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still maintains a little crunch. This keeps the veggie fresh and vibrant, not soggy or overdone.
Step 5: Finish and Combine
Stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and perfectly combined. The cheese enriches the sauce, while the lemon juice adds an inviting pop that lifts the entire dish. Finally, toss in the drained pasta shells and stir gently to coat every piece in that luscious sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only enhances the appearance but also adds a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the richness. You might also consider an extra dusting of Parmesan for those cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
Serve with warm garlic bread with cheese—it’s a classic pairing that perfectly complements the creamy pasta and makes sure no sauce goes to waste. A crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can bring balance and extra freshness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with roasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. Alternatively, serve it in individual ramekins and broil briefly for a bubbling, golden top that turns the dish into a comforting bake perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is delicate, give it a quick stir before securing to prevent separation.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta isn’t usually ideal due to texture changes, you can freeze it if needed. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet or saucepan with a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but pause halfway through to stir for even heating and to prevent the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll still enjoy all the creamy, garlicky goodness with a vegetarian-friendly twist.
What pasta can I use instead of medium shells?
Penne, rotini, or farfalle are excellent alternatives as they hold the sauce well and provide delightful texture.
Is it possible to use a dairy-free alternative for half and half?
Absolutely, you can substitute half and half with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream to keep the sauce creamy without dairy, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How can I make the broccoli extra tender?
If you prefer softer broccoli, steam it separately for a few minutes before adding it to the sauce so it stays perfectly tender without overcooking the pasta.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken breast, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms make excellent additions to boost protein and add more flavor dimensions.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that is both simple to make and packed with flavor, this Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Its rich, garlicky sauce combined with fresh broccoli and tender pasta makes it a comforting dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and share the joy of a truly satisfying meal!
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Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy broccoli pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender broccoli florets and al dente pasta shells are coated in a rich, garlicky sauce made with butter, half and half, and Parmesan cheese, enhanced by aromatic herbs and a hint of lemon juice for brightness. Served hot and optionally garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by cheesy garlic bread, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of creamy and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- ½ lb. medium pasta shells
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 3 ½ cups broccoli florets (uncooked)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Garlic bread with cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Mince the garlic cloves finely and cut broccoli into small florets if not pre-cut. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set aside.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add the medium pasta shells. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but not burnt.
- Build the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and half and half into the skillet. Stir in the onion powder, dried thyme, salt, dried oregano, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the simmering sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the sauce and broccoli. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Finish with lemon and cheese: Stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, coating the pasta beautifully.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy broccoli pasta to plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with warm garlic bread with cheese on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
- Fresh broccoli can be replaced with frozen florets if necessary.
- To enhance creaminess, add a splash more half and half or a dollop of cream cheese.
- Adjust seasonings to taste, especially salt and herbs.
