Description
Indulge in a rich and comforting Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta, featuring tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce. This quick and easy vegetarian dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or fettuccine)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½–1 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Blanch the Broccoli: In the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add broccoli to the boiling water. Drain pasta and broccoli together; set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add Dairy Components: Pour in heavy cream and stir in cream cheese, melting it into a smooth base.
- Incorporate Cheese: Lower heat and gradually stir in cheddar and Parmesan until fully melted. If too thick, mix in reserved pasta water gradually.
- Season and Combine: Stir in salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Add pasta and broccoli, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: creamy broccoli pasta, cheesy pasta recipe, easy pasta dinner, vegetarian comfort food, one-pot pasta