Creamy Broccoli Pasta – One Pot Wonder! A Deliciously Easy Comfort Dish
Nothing beats a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and wholesome meal that comes together in just one pot!
.webp "Creamy Broccoli Pasta – One Pot Wonder!")
This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet nutritious. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish is a family favorite that even picky eaters will love.
>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Telegram Channel
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Convenience: No extra dishes, no hassle—everything cooks in a single pot for easy cleanup.
Creamy & Indulgent: A luscious sauce made from cream, cheese, and pasta water coats every bite.
Nutritious Boost: Loaded with vitamin-rich broccoli for a well-balanced meal.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
2 cups pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite type)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups milk (whole milk for extra creaminess)
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra cheesiness)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli Together
Add the pasta, milk, and broth into the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the pasta cook according to the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
About 5 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. They will steam and cook with the pasta, ensuring they stay bright green and slightly tender.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes rich and creamy. If needed, add a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Final Touches
For an extra cheesy touch, stir in shredded mozzarella and let it melt into the pasta. Give everything a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets provide the best texture and color. Frozen broccoli can be used but should be added a little earlier in the cooking process.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta continues to absorb sauce after cooking, remove it from heat when it’s al dente.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, use just milk and skip the heavy cream. For ultra-richness, add an extra splash of cream.
Enhance the Flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a subtle depth of flavor.
Make it Protein-Packed: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for extra protein.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle works great. You can even use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
2. How can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the milk and cream with a non-dairy alternative like oat milk or almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
4. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to mix in mushrooms, peas, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the creamy texture and mild flavors. If your little ones are picky about broccoli, chop it finely so it blends into the sauce.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based pasta dishes don’t freeze well as the sauce can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, comforting, and nutritious meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic go-to recipe for busy nights. Try it out and enjoy a hassle-free, delicious dinner that the whole family will love!