Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that packs vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients, you’ve got to try this Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender pasta shells enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, studded with bright green broccoli florets, and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This recipe marries simplicity and taste so effortlessly that it quickly becomes a weeknight favorite or a special meal to share with friends and family. Every bite offers the right balance of savoriness, creaminess, and a touch of freshness that you’ll find absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that you likely have on hand, yet each one plays a key role in bringing this dish to life. From the butter and garlic that create a wonderfully aromatic base, to the broccoli that adds texture and pops of color, everything combines to deliver a pasta dish that’s both cozy and fresh.
- Butter: Four tablespoons provide the rich, silky foundation for the sauce.
- Garlic: Four cloves, minced to release deep flavor and aroma when sautéed.
- Chicken broth: Two cups to add savory depth and a bit of moisture for the pasta to cook in.
- Half and half: One and a quarter cups create the creamy texture without overwhelming heaviness.
- Medium pasta shells: Half a pound, perfect for holding sauce and small broccoli pieces inside.
- Onion powder, dried thyme, salt: Quarter teaspoon each to enhance and balance the savory notes.
- Dried oregano, dried parsley: Half a teaspoon each for herbal brightness and subtle complexity.
- Broccoli florets: Three and a half cups, cut into smaller pieces for tenderness and vibrant green contrast.
- Lemon juice: Two teaspoons to add a fresh zing that lifts the overall flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Three-quarters of a cup, finely grated for that nutty, salty finish that makes this dish shine.
How to Make Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe
Step 1: Mise en Place – Get Everything Ready
Begin by measuring out all your ingredients. Preparing everything beforehand, especially chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets, saves time and keeps this cooking process smooth and enjoyable. This little step means you’re set to focus on building flavors without scrambling for ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s glossy and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook it gently for about one minute to let its bright aroma infuse the butter without browning or burning, which can turn it bitter.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and half and half, then stir in the onion powder, dried thyme, salt, oregano, and parsley. This combination of herbs and seasoning adds wonderful layers to the creamy base, making it anything but bland.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli Together
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then add the pasta shells, fully submerging them in the liquid. Cover partially to trap steam, and cook according to the package’s time. About six minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets so they soften perfectly alongside the shells. Use a silicone spatula occasionally to stir the mixture gently, avoiding the pasta sticking to the pan.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Remove the cover and try a pasta shell to see if it has reached your preferred tenderness. If not quite done, cover again and cook briefly until it’s just right. This flexibility ensures your pasta isn’t overcooked and mushy.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Parmesan
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the lemon juice, which cuts through the creaminess with a refreshing brightness. Then fold in the finely grated Parmesan cheese gently with the spatula; the sauce will thicken as it stands, becoming irresistibly luscious and creamy.
How to Serve Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even more, sprinkle fresh parsley or a bit more grated Parmesan right before serving. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you’re feeling adventurous. These touches make the presentation pop and introduce fresh, vibrant notes to each bite.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic bread to soak up any leftover cream sauce. A light vegetable side like sautéed spinach or a medley of roasted cherry tomatoes will complement the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with extra Parmesan curls and a sprig of parsley. Alternatively, arranging the pasta in a colorful, shallow serving dish with fresh lemon wedges around the side invites your guests to customize their citrus boost, making the experience interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Because the sauce thickens after standing, you might want to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back its creamy consistency.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, cool it completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind that the texture of the broccoli and cream sauce might change slightly after freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid curdling.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low to medium heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Add a little milk or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally, to revive the creamy texture without breaking it down.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While medium pasta shells are recommended because they hold onto the sauce and broccoli nicely, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe?
Yes, simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep the flavor robust yet vegetarian-friendly. The creamy sauce and broccoli still make the dish satisfying without meat-based ingredients.
Can I make this dish dairy-free or vegan?
To make it dairy-free, try using plant-based butter and a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream, along with nutritional yeast to replace Parmesan. The texture and flavor will vary slightly but still deliciously creamy.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?
Stir the pasta occasionally with a silicone spatula as it cooks and ensure it remains submerged in the liquid. Cooking partially covered also helps maintain steam and even cooking, reducing chances of sticking.
Can I add protein to the Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon pieces make excellent additions, turning this dish into a more hearty and complete meal. Add them toward the end of cooking to keep their texture and flavor intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a pasta dish that feels indulgent yet fresh, and this Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s an easy, flavorful meal to bring warmth and joy to your table any time you make it. Trust me, once you try it, this creamy, garlicky pasta studded with tender broccoli will become one of your go-to favorites to share with everyone you love.
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Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and comforting Broccoli Pasta recipe combines tender pasta shells with fresh broccoli florets in a rich sauce made from butter, garlic, chicken broth, half and half, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley, and brightened with a touch of lemon juice, this dish comes together quickly in a single skillet, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- ½ lb. medium pasta shells
Seasonings & Herbs
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Vegetables & Cheese
- 3 ½ cups broccoli florets, uncooked
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Measure out all ingredients prior to starting, practicing mise en place. Cut the broccoli into smaller florets so they cook evenly and more quickly during the pasta cooking process.
- Sauté Garlic: Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and half and half, then add onion powder, dried thyme, salt, dried oregano, and dried parsley. Stir to combine the mixture thoroughly.
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring the liquid to a boil. Add the pasta shells, submerging them fully. Reduce heat to a simmer, partially cover the skillet, and cook according to the pasta package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 6 minutes of cooking. Occasionally run a silicone spatula along the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.
- Check Pasta Doneness: Remove the cover and taste a piece of pasta to test doneness. If needed, cover again and cook a little longer until pasta reaches your preferred texture.
- Finish with Lemon and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and gently fold in the finely grated Parmesan cheese with a silicone spatula. The sauce will thicken as it stands.
- Serve: Garnish the pasta with extra parsley if desired. Serve immediately, optionally alongside garlic bread with cheese for a complete meal.
Notes
- Cutting broccoli into small florets allows it to cook evenly and quickly alongside the pasta.
- Running a silicone spatula along the bottom helps prevent pasta from sticking and burning.
- The sauce thickens upon standing, so serve promptly or be ready for a heartier texture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Freshly grated Parmesan yields better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
