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One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Pasta

A white bowl filled with creamy penne broccoli pasta, topped with grated cheese.

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You can make this comforting, creamy broccoli pasta in one pot in under 30 minutes. It uses simple ingredients to create a velvety sauce that coats every noodle.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  2. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Add the dry pasta to the boiling broth. Stir well to prevent sticking.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally during cooking.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Add red pepper flakes now if you want a little heat.
  8. Serve immediately in bowls. Top each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the vegetable broth with chicken broth.
  • If you want to add protein, stir in 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken during the last step when adding the cheese.
  • If the sauce seems too thick after resting, add a splash of hot water or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition