This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. Tender pasta shells are coated in a rich Garlic Parmesan sauce infused with herbs and tossed with plenty of broccoli, creating one of those easy dinner recipes that everyone looks forward to. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds just the right touch of brightness to balance the creamy sauce.
The shell pasta is especially well suited for this dish, catching the velvety sauce in every curve and creating a flavorful bite every time. Combined with tender broccoli and a buttery Parmesan sauce, the result is a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
One of the best things about this recipe is how effortlessly it brings vegetables to the table. The broccoli blends seamlessly into the creamy pasta, making it a favorite even among those who might not normally get excited about eating their greens.
For the smoothest and most flavorful sauce, freshly grated cheese is the way to go. Parmesan grated directly from a block melts more easily and delivers a richer flavor than pre-packaged grated or shredded varieties, which often contain ingredients that can affect texture. A blend of Parmesan, Asiago, and Romano also works beautifully for an even deeper cheesy flavor.
When making the sauce, it’s important to avoid adding the cheese to a base that’s too hot. Allowing the mixture to cool slightly before stirring in the cheese helps create a silky, creamy consistency instead of a grainy one.
While pasta shells are ideal, other similarly sized pasta shapes work just as well. Fusilli, farfalle, and other medium-sized varieties can easily be substituted, making this a versatile recipe that’s easy to adapt with what’s already in the pantry. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this broccoli pasta is a comforting meal the whole family will love.
One Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta
This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. Tender pasta shells are coated in a rich Garlic Parmesan sauce infused with herbs and tossed with plenty of broccoli, creating one of those easy dinner recipes that everyone looks forward to. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds just the right touch of brightness to balance the creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- ½ lb. medium pasta shells
- ¼ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, dried thyme, salt
- ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, dried parsley
- 3 ½ cups broccoli florets, uncooked
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese, finely grated into a powder
Instructions
Step-By-Step Instructions
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