Description
Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a quick one-pot dinner made with tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 1/4 cups half and half
1/2 lb medium pasta shells
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
3 1/2 cups broccoli florets
2 teaspoons lemon juice
3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare and measure all ingredients and cut broccoli into small pieces
2. Melt butter over medium heat and cook garlic until fragrant
3. Add chicken broth, half and half, and seasonings then bring to a boil
4. Add pasta and cook partially covered while stirring occasionally
5. Add broccoli during the last 5 to 6 minutes of cooking
6. Cook until pasta is tender and sauce reduces slightly
7. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice
8. Add Parmesan cheese slowly and mix until smooth
9. Let the sauce rest briefly to thicken before serving
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor
Avoid adding cheese when the sauce is too hot to prevent grainy texture
Pre-shredded cheese may not melt smoothly
Try blending Parmesan with Asiago or Romano for deeper flavor
Sauce thickens as it rests after cooking
Store leftovers up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze up to 3 months
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl