Broccoli Pasta

This Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering. The standout feature of this pasta is the buttery Garlic Parmesan Sauce, which beautifully envelops each shell, making every bite a treat. Plus, with plenty of broccoli included, you can feel good about serving this dish to your family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Creamy Goodness: The Garlic Parmesan Sauce adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pasta and broccoli.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli, this dish offers essential vitamins while still being indulgent.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side; it’s suitable for various occasions and gatherings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools in your kitchen can make preparing Broccoli Pasta simpler and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the pasta and sauce all in one pan, ensuring flavors meld together beautifully.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, plus it helps prevent pasta from sticking.

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

For the Broccoli

• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets (uncooked)
• 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 beneficial for quick recipes. Pro Tip: Cut the broccoli into smaller pieces so they cook more quickly.

Step 2: Start Cooking the Sauce

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

Step 3: Combine Liquid Ingredients

Add chicken broth, half and half, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, oregano, and parsley to the skillet.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta shells. Submerge them in the liquid and let it return to a boil. Cook partially covered according to package instructions. Add the uncooked broccoli during the last 6 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Taste Test for Doneness

Remove the cover to taste-test a pasta noodle for doneness before proceeding. If necessary, cover again and cook longer until your desired texture is reached.

Step 6: Finish Up with Cheese and Lemon Juice

Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice gently using a silicone spatula before mixing in finely grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

The sauce will continue to thicken upon standing. Garnish with parsley before serving alongside garlic bread with cheese for an extra flavor boost!

How to Serve Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this delicious meal.

With Garlic Bread

• Toasted slices of garlic bread make a great side, adding crunch and flavor to complement the creamy pasta.

Topped with Extra Parmesan

• A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top elevates the flavors and adds a cheesy finish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your pasta with fresh parsley or basil for added color and a burst of freshness in every bite.

Side Salad

• A crispy green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing touch.

Lemon Wedges

• Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add an extra zing to their dish, enhancing the lemony flavor already present.

Wine Pairing

• A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with Broccoli Pasta, bringing out its flavors.

How to Perfect Broccoli Pasta

To ensure your Broccoli Pasta turns out creamy and delicious every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh florets will provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.
• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference.
• Reserve pasta water: Keeping some cooking water can help adjust sauce consistency if it’s too thick.
• Mix in cheese off heat: Combining Parmesan after removing from heat helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
• Let it sit briefly: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes helps the sauce thicken and coat the pasta evenly.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Pasta

When planning a meal around Broccoli Pasta, it’s nice to have complementary side dishes. Consider these flavorful options that will enhance your dinner.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and flavors to your table.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic can create a comforting combination.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a fresh bite.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs can be an excellent appetizer or side.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a tender yet crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Broccoli Pasta, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping mise en place: Not measuring out ingredients beforehand can lead to confusion and overcooking. Always prepare your ingredients first for a smoother cooking process.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions and taste-test for the perfect al dente texture.
• Not chopping broccoli properly: Leaving large florets can result in uneven cooking. Cut the broccoli into smaller pieces for consistent doneness.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: If you skip letting the sauce thicken, it may not coat the pasta well. Allow it to rest after mixing in cheese for better texture.
• Using low-quality cheese: Poor quality Parmesan can alter the flavor. Opt for finely grated, high-quality cheese for a rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for 3-4 days.

Freezing Broccoli Pasta

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Broccoli Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat at medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Broccoli Pasta, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Broccoli Pasta?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure it’s heated through but not mushy.

What type of pasta is best for Broccoli Pasta?

Medium pasta shells are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well. However, you can substitute with other shapes like penne or fusilli.

Can I make Broccoli Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the cooking stage, store in the fridge, and then cook when ready to serve.

How can I customize this Broccoli Pasta recipe?

Feel free to add proteins like chicken or shrimp, or toss in additional vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for more nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This creamy Broccoli Pasta is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and maintains its flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or protein options to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s quick and satisfying!