Broccoli Pasta

This Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy pasta shells with fresh, vibrant broccoli and a rich Garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, elegant dinner parties, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The balance of flavors, from the buttery sauce to the zesty lemon juice, makes this recipe a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a fast weeknight dinner.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean means more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the entire dish.
• Nutritious: With plenty of broccoli in every bite, you get a healthy dose of vitamins alongside your carbs.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or extra veggies to tailor this dish to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Broccoli Pasta efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking everything together, ensuring even heating and easy stirring.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping the bottom of the pan without scratching it, helping to prevent pasta from sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This Creamy Broccoli Pasta has pasta shells smothered in a buttery Garlic Parmesan Sauce with herbs, a hint of lemon juice, and lots of broccoli!

For the Sauce

• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 ¼ cups half and half

For the Pasta

• ½ lb. medium pasta shells

For Seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, dried thyme, salt
• ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, dried parsley

For the Broccoli

• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets (uncooked)

Finishing Touches

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese (finely grated into a powder)

How to Make Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Measure out all ingredients prior to beginning. This is called “mise en place” and is a good idea for quick recipes. Pro Tip: Cut the broccoli into smaller pieces so that they cook more quickly.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Add the chicken broth, half and half, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Bring to a boil and add the pasta. Submerge the pasta into the liquid and let it return to a boil. Cook partially covered according to package instructions.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

Add the broccoli during the last 6 minutes of cooking time. Use a silicone spatula along the bottom of the pan occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Remove cover taste-test a pasta noodle for doneness before proceeding. If needed, cover and cook longer until your desired doneness is obtained.

Step 7: Finish with Lemon and Cheese

Remove from heat. Add lemon juice and use a silicone spatula to gently mix in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Step 8: Serve

The sauce will continue to thicken upon standing. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve with garlic bread with cheese for an extra treat!

How to Serve Broccoli Pasta

Broccoli Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Broccoli Pasta, adding a crispy, buttery side that complements the creamy sauce.

Topped with Extra Parmesan

• For cheese lovers, adding extra grated Parmesan on top enhances the flavor and richness of the dish.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds depth and enhances the flavor of your Broccoli Pasta.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh basil or chopped parsley on top adds color and brightness, making your dish more appealing.

How to Perfect Broccoli Pasta

Perfecting your Broccoli Pasta is easy with a few simple tips that ensure great taste and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and garlic will elevate the flavor significantly compared to dried or frozen options.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta slightly firmer allows it to absorb flavors while maintaining texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your personal preference for a customized taste.
• Avoid Overcooking: Adding broccoli in the last few minutes prevents it from becoming mushy while keeping its vibrant color.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Broccoli Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic brings added health benefits and flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad, with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, complements the pasta beautifully.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil provides a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of color and a nutritious crunch that pairs well.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an easy-to-eat appetizer.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and flavors that work well together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Broccoli Pasta can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-stellar results.

• Bold phrase: Skipping the mise en place – Not measuring out ingredients beforehand can slow you down. Prepare everything before starting for a smoother cooking experience.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the pasta – Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Always taste-test a noodle just before the suggested cooking time is up.
• Bold phrase: Using low-quality cheese – Cheap cheese can ruin your sauce’s flavor. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture and taste.
• Bold phrase: Neglecting to cut broccoli properly – Large florets take longer to cook. Cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they are tender and integrate well with the pasta.
• Bold phrase: Forgetting to save some pasta water – The starchy water can help adjust sauce consistency. Reserve some before draining the pasta for a creamier sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container.
• item It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Pasta

• item Freeze Broccoli Pasta in freezer-safe containers.
• item It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Pasta

• Bold phrase: Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Bold phrase: Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Bold phrase: Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Broccoli Pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute different shapes like penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on package instructions.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Broccoli Pasta stores well and is perfect for preparing ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I add protein to my Broccoli Pasta?

Definitely! Chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions. Just cook them separately and mix them in with the pasta at the end.

How can I make this Broccoli Pasta vegan?

Replace butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cream alternative along with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for that cheesy flavor.

What can I serve with Broccoli Pasta?

Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you want extra veggies or proteins, feel free to tailor it to your taste. Try it today and enjoy a comforting meal packed with flavors!