Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Introduction: Why This Creamy Broccoli Pasta Is a Dinner Lifesaver

Creamy Broccoli Pasta is that rare kind of recipe you can count on when the day’s been long, the fridge feels uninspiring, and everyone’s hungry now. It’s cozy, satisfying, and comes together in one pot without a pile of dishes.

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This dish hits the sweet spot between comfort and balance. The garlic-parmesan sauce wraps around every shell, broccoli adds a fresh bite, and there’s just enough richness to feel indulgent without overdoing it. If you’ve ever wanted a quick win on a weeknight this is it.

Whether you’re looking to expand your pasta dinner recipes or sneak more greens into your meals, this one checks every box. Simple ingredients, no fancy prep, and under 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, there’s room to adapt it into shrimp or chicken versions if you’re feeling creative.

Coming up, you’ll get the full ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, flavor-boosting tips, and easy variations like how to make broccoli and sausage pasta or turn this into a garlic butter shrimp and broccoli bowl.

Craving creamy comfort with easy cleanup Try One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy broccoli pasta work like a charm. Stick to the basics, or swap a few things if you’re feeling adventurous.

• 4 tablespoons butter
  
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 2 cups chicken broth
  
• 1 ¼ cups half and half
  
• ½ pound medium pasta shells
  
• ¼ teaspoon each: onion powder, dried thyme, salt
  
• ½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, dried parsley
  
• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
  
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated from a block
  

Ingredient Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce
  
• Chop the broccoli small so it cooks quickly with the pasta
  
• Shells work best, but fusilli or farfalle hold the sauce well too
  

Want to make it more filling? Add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp at the end. This base adapts easily into versions like shrimp and broccoli pasta or a hearty chicken and broccoli pasta recipe.

How To Make Creamy Broccoli Pasta

This one-pot pasta recipe comes together fast. Keep everything close by before you start, and it’ll be on the table in under 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients
   Measure everything first. Cut the broccoli into small florets so it softens quickly during cooking.
   
2. Start the base
   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   
3. Add liquids and seasonings
   Pour in the chicken broth and half and half. Stir in all the dried herbs, onion powder, and salt. Let it come to a boil.
   
4. Cook the pasta
   Add the pasta shells and make sure they’re fully submerged. Return to a gentle boil, then cover loosely. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   
5. Add the broccoli
   About 5 to 6 minutes before the pasta is done, stir in the chopped broccoli. Keep cooking until the pasta is tender and the broccoli is just soft.
   
6. Finish the sauce
   Take the skillet off the heat. Stir in lemon juice, then gently fold in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Let the sauce thicken for a few minutes before serving.
   

For extra flavor, garnish with more cheese or fresh herbs like parsley. Pair it with garlic bread or roasted chicken if you’re serving a bigger meal.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Making creamy broccoli pasta is simple, but a few small tricks can turn it from good to unforgettable. These tips help you avoid common kitchen slip-ups and get a velvety, flavorful sauce every time.

Get the Cheese Right

Always grate Parmesan from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that keep it from melting smoothly. This is key if you want that creamy finish without clumps.

Watch the Heat

Don’t add cheese while the sauce is still bubbling. Let the heat drop slightly before stirring it in. If the base is too hot, the cheese may break and turn grainy.

Mind the Pasta Texture

Use pasta shapes that hold sauce well like shells, fusilli, or bowties. Stir occasionally during cooking to stop them from sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Flavor Boost Ideas

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese if you like it extra rich. Swap in roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.

Want to experiment? This same sauce works well with chicken, shrimp, or sausage. You can create new versions like garlic butter shrimp and broccoli pasta without changing the method much.

Recipe Variations for Creamy Broccoli Pasta

This creamy broccoli pasta is versatile. With a few quick changes, you can tailor it to fit different cravings or whatever ingredients you already have on hand.

How To Make Broccoli and Sausage Pasta

Brown sliced sausage in the pan before adding the butter and garlic. Use the same steps from there. The sausage adds a smoky flavor that balances well with the creamy sauce and broccoli.

How To Make Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

Cook peeled shrimp in butter until pink, then remove and set aside. Prepare the pasta and sauce as usual. Add the shrimp back in at the end along with the broccoli. This works especially well with a garlic butter twist.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipes Easy

If you have leftover cooked chicken, stir it in during the final few minutes. For raw chicken, cube and sauté it at the start before moving to the garlic step. It turns this vegetarian-friendly dish into a hearty chicken dinner.

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

Use extra garlic and finish with a squeeze of lemon. Cook the shrimp first, then follow the creamy sauce steps. The garlic butter adds richness while the broccoli keeps it light.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Broccoli and Mushrooms

To switch things up further, stir in sliced mushrooms with the garlic. Use Alfredo sauce instead of half and half if you want a richer version. This adds an earthy layer that pairs well with broccoli.

No matter which variation you choose, the base method stays nearly the same. That makes this recipe a flexible go-to for whatever is in your fridge.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this creamy broccoli pasta hold up well if stored properly. The sauce may thicken after chilling, but a little care during reheating brings it right back to life.

How to Store It

Transfer the pasta to an airtight container once it cools. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to three months. Be sure to label the date so you can keep track.

Best Way to Reheat

For the stovetop, place the pasta in a pan with a splash of milk or chicken broth. Warm over low heat while stirring to loosen the sauce. In the microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Avoid high heat, which can cause the cheese to separate or turn grainy. A gentle warm-up keeps the sauce smooth and creamy.

This makes a great option for meal prep lunches or a fast second-night dinner. Add a little extra cheese when reheating for a fresh boost of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Nutrition Information for Creamy Broccoli Pasta

This creamy broccoli pasta delivers comfort without going overboard. Below is an estimate based on four servings. Keep in mind, values may vary slightly depending on the ingredients you use.

• Calories: 495
  
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
  
• Protein: 17 g
  
• Fat: 26 g
  
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
  
• Cholesterol: 71 mg
  
• Sodium: 866 mg
  
• Potassium: 363 mg
  
• Fiber: 2 g
  
• Sugar: 2 g
  
• Vitamin A: 783 IU
  
• Vitamin C: 12 mg
  
• Calcium: 335 mg
  
• Iron: 1 mg
  

For a lighter version, consider using lower-fat dairy or cutting back on the cheese slightly. You can also boost the fiber by using whole wheat pasta.

This dish balances rich flavor with a decent amount of protein, making it a satisfying option for busy nights or weekly meal plans.

Conclusion: A Comforting Pasta Worth Repeating

Creamy broccoli pasta is more than just a quick fix for dinner. It’s the kind of meal that feels thoughtful even when time is short. The creamy garlic sauce, tender pasta shells, and fresh broccoli make every bite feel like home.

You can keep it simple or build on it with sausage, shrimp, or chicken. It works as a weeknight staple, a cozy lunch, or a meal prep go-to. If you’re someone who loves pasta dinner recipes but also wants something balanced and reliable, this one should be in your rotation.

Give it a try tonight. Save the recipe, print it out, or share it with someone who’s always asking what to make for dinner. You might be surprised how often it ends up on your table.

Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Emily Wilson

A quick and comforting one-pot meal made with tender pasta shells, fresh broccoli, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 bowls

Calories 495 kcal

Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups
• Box grater

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 ¼ cups half and half
• 0.5 pound pasta shells medium size
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets chopped small
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese finely grated from block

Instructions

 

• Measure and prepare all ingredients before you start. Cut broccoli into small florets so it cooks quickly.
• Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in chicken broth and half and half. Stir in all herbs, onion powder, and salt. Bring to a boil.
• Add pasta shells and ensure they are fully submerged. Let it return to a boil, then cook partially covered. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• About 5 minutes before pasta is done, stir in the broccoli. Continue cooking until pasta is tender and broccoli is soft.
• Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice, then gently fold in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Let sit a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan to avoid a grainy sauce. Stir cheese in off heat for the best texture. Swap in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for protein.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 495
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Protein: 17 g
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Cholesterol: 71 mg
• Sodium: 866 mg
• Potassium: 363 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Vitamin A: 783 IU
• Vitamin C: 12 mg
• Calcium: 335 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

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