Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Quick Weeknight Meal (Print Version)

Creamy broccoli pasta is an easy, satisfying weeknight meal. This quick recipe combines tender broccoli with a rich, velvety sauce and pasta for a family-friendly dinner.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta Foundation

01 - 12 oz short pasta (such as orecchiette or penne)

→ Creamy Broccoli Embrace

02 - 1 lb fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
03 - 1 cup half-and-half
04 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
06 - 1 cup vegetable broth

→ Aromatic Boosters & Seasoning

07 - 2 tbsp olive oil
08 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
10 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 - 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
13 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz short pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. While pasta cooks for this Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Easy Weeknight Meal, cut 1 lb fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces, mince 3 cloves garlic, and finely dice 1/2 yellow onion.
02 - In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the aromatics and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup vegetable broth until smooth. Then, slowly pour in 1 cup half-and-half, stirring until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. This forms the heart of your Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Easy Weeknight Meal.
04 - Add the 1 lb fresh broccoli florets to the sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
05 - Remove the lid. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for your perfect Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Easy Weeknight Meal.
06 - Drain the cooked 12 oz short pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the creamy broccoli sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Serve immediately for a delightful Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Easy Weeknight Meal.

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcook the broccoli! It should be tender-crisp, retaining some bite for texture.
02 - For a richer sauce, you can substitute heavy cream for half-and-half. For a lighter version, use milk, but the sauce may be thinner.
03 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
04 - Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, or a squeeze of lemon before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large pot
02 - Large skillet
03 - Cutting board
04 - Chef's knife
05 - Measuring cups and spoons
06 - Colander
07 - Wooden spoon/spatula

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 555 kcal
Total Fat: 19 g
Total Carbohydrate: 76 g
Protein: 21 g

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