Description
This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender pasta shells enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce with fresh broccoli florets, enhanced by aromatic herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines wholesome vegetables with a rich, silky texture and a hint of lemon brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
Butter and Garlic
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Pasta and Vegetables
- ½ lb. medium pasta shells
- 3 ½ cups broccoli florets (uncooked)
Herbs and Seasonings
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Cheese
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Garlic bread with cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by mincing the garlic cloves finely. Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets if not pre-cut to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Garlic in Butter: In a large skillet or deep pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden but not burnt.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and half and half. Stir in the onion powder, dried thyme, salt, dried oregano, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Add the medium pasta shells and the broccoli florets directly to the simmering liquid. Stir well to combine. Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the broccoli is cooked but still bright green. The pasta will absorb most of the liquid, creating a creamy sauce.
- Finish with Lemon Juice and Parmesan: Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts into the sauce, thickening it further and adding a savory depth.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot, optionally accompanied by garlic bread with cheese for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use gluten-free pasta shells if you need a gluten-free version.
- Adding the broccoli directly with the pasta saves time and minimizes cleanup.
- Do not overcook the broccoli to keep a nice texture and vibrant color.
- Parmesan cheese enhances creaminess; use freshly grated for best flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
