One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Name: One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (your choice); 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Kitchen Classics

Prepare a comforting and flavorful meal with this One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta recipe. This quick and delicious dish combines tender pasta with vibrant broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-12-02T09:59:14.031Z

Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, it's a delightful way to enjoy vegetables while satisfying your pasta cravings.

An Easy Weeknight Dinner

One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta is the quintessential weeknight meal. With busy schedules and limited time, this recipe allows you to whip up a satisfying dinner without the stress of multiple pots and pans. The all-in-one cooking method not only saves time but also reduces the cleanup afterward, making it a perfect choice for families and individuals alike.

Plus, its quick preparation ensures that you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal chopping, you can have a satisfying dish ready to serve in about 30 minutes.

A Nutrient-Packed Meal

Broccoli is not only colorful but also brimming with essential nutrients. This vibrant vegetable is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and various antioxidants, making it a powerhouse addition to your diet. By incorporating broccoli into your pasta dish, you're not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting its nutritional value significantly.

The combination of carbohydrates from the pasta and the fiber from the broccoli teams up to provide lasting energy, making this meal ideal for both active individuals and those seeking to maintain a balanced diet. With this recipe, you can enjoy a comfort food classic while still prioritizing health.

Versatile and Customizable

Another great aspect of this One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the pasta for your favorite type—whether it's whole wheat, gluten-free, or a fun shape like shells or bowties, it all works. You can even throw in other vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the dish even further.

Moreover, if you're looking to add some protein, consider tossing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This dish can easily transform with different variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe that you'll reach for time and again.

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (your choice)
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the pasta and broccoli. Cook according to the pasta package instructions until al dente.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Mix everything well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve warm, drizzled with olive oil.

Enjoy your delicious One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta!

Cooking Tips for Perfection

To ensure your pasta cooks to al dente perfection, keep an eye on the cooking time specified on the package. Since the pasta and broccoli are cooked together, remember that you may need to adjust the timing slightly based on the specific type of pasta you choose. Always taste as you go to guarantee the best texture.

To enhance the creamy sauce, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor. These small additions can make a significant difference, turning a simple dish into something special that impresses everyone at the table.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few simple side dishes. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, providing a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.

For those who enjoy a touch of crunch, garlic bread or a baguette makes for the best accompaniment. Not only does it allow you to soak up every bit of the rich, creamy sauce, but it also adds a comforting element to the meal.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from your One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore some of that creamy consistency and prevent the pasta from drying out.

If you're looking to meal prep, consider making a larger batch and freezing portions for later. This dish freezes well, and when you're ready for a quick meal, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used; just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any short pasta such as penne or fusilli works well for this recipe.