Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that combines tender pasta shells with fresh broccoli florets in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. Balanced with a hint of lemon and aromatic herbs, this one-pan meal is both quick and satisfying. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves the combination of hearty pasta and nutrient-rich vegetables. It’s a one-skillet meal that comes together quickly and requires minimal cleanup. The buttery garlic sauce, infused with Parmesan and herbs, coats each pasta shell beautifully, while the broccoli adds color, texture, and freshness. It’s also easily adaptable for vegetarians or those wanting to include protein.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1¼ cups half and half
- ½ pound medium pasta shells
- ¼ teaspoon each: onion powder, dried thyme, salt
- ½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, dried parsley
- 3½ cups broccoli florets, uncooked
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated into a powder
Directions
- Prepare Ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting. (Tip: Cut broccoli into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.)
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and half and half, then stir in all the seasonings.
- Add Pasta: Bring to a boil and add the pasta. Submerge completely in the liquid and return to a boil. Cook partially covered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Broccoli: During the last 6 minutes of pasta cooking, stir in the broccoli florets. Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender.
- Final Touches: Once pasta is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice, then gently mix in the Parmesan cheese using a spatula.
- Serve: Let the sauce thicken for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with garlic bread if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a meat-free version.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits for extra substance.
- Cheese Blend: Use a mix of Parmesan and Romano or Asiago for a deeper flavor.
- Pasta Choice: Swap shells with penne, rotini, or fusilli if preferred.
- Creamier Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate and broccoli may lose texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, add frozen broccoli directly to the pan during the last 5–6 minutes of cooking. No need to thaw.
What can I substitute for half and half?
You can use equal parts whole milk and heavy cream or use just whole milk for a lighter sauce.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well, just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir occasionally and ensure the pasta is fully submerged in liquid during cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, undercook the pasta slightly to prevent mushiness when reheated.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free thickener (if needed) to adapt it for gluten-free diets.
What herbs can I add for extra flavor?
Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary make excellent additions. Add them at the end for a bright finish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use a large enough skillet or pot to accommodate.
Why did my sauce turn grainy?
This can happen if Parmesan is added when the sauce is too hot or if the cheese isn’t finely grated. Let the pan cool slightly before stirring in cheese.
Conclusion
Broccoli Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. The simple combination of pasta, broccoli, garlic, and Parmesan creates a satisfying and comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults. With room for customization and quick preparation, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.
Print
Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Creamy Broccoli Pasta recipe is a comforting dinner that’s ready in just 25 minutes! Tender pasta shells are coated in a rich, buttery garlic Parmesan sauce with herbs, lemon juice, and fresh broccoli florets—perfect for busy weeknights or meatless meals.
Ingredients
-
4 tablespoons butter
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 cups chicken broth
-
1 1/4 cups half and half
-
1/2 lb medium pasta shells
-
1/4 teaspoon each: onion powder, dried thyme, salt
-
1/2 teaspoon each: dried oregano, dried parsley
-
3 1/2 cups broccoli florets, uncooked
-
2 teaspoons lemon juice
-
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated into a powder
Instructions
-
Prepare all ingredients before starting (mise en place). Cut broccoli into small florets for quicker cooking.
-
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
-
Stir in chicken broth, half and half, and all seasonings. Bring to a boil.
-
Add pasta, ensure it’s submerged, and return to a boil. Cook partially covered according to pasta instructions.
-
Add broccoli during the last 6 minutes of pasta cooking time. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Test pasta for doneness. If needed, cover and cook a bit longer.
-
Remove from heat, add lemon juice, and gently mix in Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
-
Let sit to thicken slightly. Garnish with parsley and serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
Notes
-
Cut broccoli small for even cooking.
-
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor.
-
Can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
-
Sauce thickens more as it cools—add a splash of broth or cream to loosen when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
