Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Quick Weeknight Meal (Print Version)
Enjoy this comforting Creamy Broccoli Pasta, a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknights. Packed with tender broccoli and a rich, luscious sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ The Pasta & Verdure
01 -
12 oz penne pasta
02 -
1 lb fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
→ The Velvety Sauce Base
03 -
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1/2 cup vegetable broth
06 -
1 cup heavy cream
07 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
08 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Flavorful Finishing Touches
09 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
10 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
11 -
1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
12 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook according to package directions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 1 lb fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces, to the pot. Drain well, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
02 -
While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 4 cloves garlic, minced, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
03 -
Pour in 1/2 cup vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes. Whisk constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy for this delicious Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe.
04 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. Season the sauce with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for your perfect Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe.
05 -
Add the drained penne pasta and broccoli florets to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
06 -
Remove from heat. Stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Garnish the Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even richer flavor, consider using a good quality aged Parmesan cheese.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
03 -
Feel free to substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth, or use a different short pasta shape like rigatoni or cavatappi.
04 -
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all the creamy sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
07 -
Colander
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 757 kcal
Total Fat: 44 g
Total Carbohydrate: 74 g
Protein: 22 g