Creamy Broccoli Pasta is that magical weeknight meal that somehow makes everyone at the table happy. You know those nights when you’re exhausted, hungry, and the idea of chopping anything feels like too much? Yep, this is your hero dish. It’s cozy, rich, and full of cheesy flavor—but it still feels light enough to avoid that post-dinner slump.
Tender broccoli gets coated in a luscious parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked mini shells (or whatever pasta’s hiding in your pantry). The best part? This Creamy Broccoli Pasta comes together in under 30 minutes. So, while it tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant, it’s totally doable even after a long workday. Bonus: it’s picky-eater approved and reheats like a dream.
Table of Contents
What is Creamy Broccoli Pasta?
Creamy Broccoli Pasta is comfort food with a nutritious twist. Imagine your favorite alfredo-style dish, but with a pop of green freshness from sautéed broccoli. It’s made with a base of garlic, butter, and olive oil—then swirled with heavy cream and parmesan cheese to create a sauce so smooth and satisfying, you’ll be tempted to lick the pan (no judgment). The mini shells cradle that velvety sauce perfectly, giving you a bite of flavor in every spoonful. This pasta feels indulgent, but because of the broccoli, it strikes that balance between wholesome and crave-worthy. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a family dinner, this is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the table.
Reasons to Try Creamy Broccoli Pasta
First off, it’s ridiculously easy. You only need one skillet and a pot of boiling water—no complicated steps or fancy tools. Second, it’s budget-friendly. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have. And third, it’s the ultimate comfort food without feeling heavy. The creaminess of the sauce, the nuttiness of the parmesan, and the freshness of the broccoli come together like a little symphony of flavor. Plus, if you’ve been trying to sneak more veggies into your meals, this recipe does it effortlessly. Even the broccoli skeptics in your house won’t complain. And if you loved dishes like my Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, this pasta gives you that same creamy goodness—but in pasta form.
Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Broccoli Pasta
- 12 ounces mini shells (or any small pasta shape)
- 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions to Make Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Ready to make your new favorite weeknight dinner? Follow this step-by-step guide to make the most delicious, creamy, and comforting Creamy Broccoli Pasta—without any fuss. Whether you’re a kitchen pro or just trying to get dinner on the table fast, these directions will walk you through every moment, from boiling the pasta to swirling that silky parmesan sauce.
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. (Don’t skip the salt—it’s what gives your pasta its base flavor!) Add your mini shells or small-shaped pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—which means tender but still with a little bite. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy once mixed with sauce, so set a timer to avoid that sad situation.
Before draining, carefully scoop out one cup of the pasta water—trust me, you’ll need it later to give your sauce that dreamy, silky texture. Once drained, set the pasta aside while you start the sauce.
Pro Tip: Learn more about getting pasta just right in my Crock Pot Vegetable Soup, where perfectly cooked pasta makes all the difference in flavor and texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter melts and starts to foam slightly. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and translucent.
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling amazing! Be careful not to let it brown too much, or it’ll turn bitter.
Step-by-Step Tip: If you want to experiment with aromatics, check out my Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup. It shows how the right combination of onion, garlic, and butter builds an irresistible base of flavor.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli and Seasonings
Now for the star of the show—broccoli! Add your florets to the skillet, stirring to coat them in that garlicky, buttery goodness. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli softens slightly but still holds its bright green color. You want it tender but not mushy—it should add a bit of crunch and freshness to your creamy pasta.
If your pan starts to feel dry, splash in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to keep everything moist.
Flavor Boost: You can swap in roasted cauliflower for a twist, or mix in spinach for extra greens. You’ll find more ideas like this in my Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe, where broccoli plays an equally creamy and comforting role.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and half of the reserved pasta water. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
As the sauce simmers, it will thicken and coat the back of your spoon beautifully. At this point, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the cream, creating that smooth, luxurious texture that makes this dish so satisfying.
Step-by-Step Tip: If your sauce feels too thick, add a little more pasta water—just a few tablespoons at a time. The starch from the pasta water helps everything blend perfectly without diluting the flavor.
Want to master creamy sauces? My Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup shows how to balance dairy, broth, and cheese for that flawless, velvety finish.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Toss to Perfection
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the sauce until every shell is coated in creamy goodness. Cook for another minute or two to let the pasta soak up some of that flavor.
If the sauce thickens too much, just splash in a little more of your reserved pasta water until you hit that perfect creamy consistency.
Taste and adjust your seasoning—add a pinch more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. Then garnish with extra Parmesan cheese (because there’s no such thing as too much cheese, right?).
Serve hot, and watch it disappear fast!
Optional Upgrade: Want to add protein? Try tossing in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon. For more inspiration on creamy, veggie-forward meals, check out my Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once plated, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a twist of black pepper. If you like a bit of zest, a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish beautifully.
Serve your Creamy Broccoli Pasta with a crisp side salad or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.
For a light, refreshing side, you might enjoy my Green Goddess Soup—its herby, creamy base pairs perfectly with pasta dishes like this one.
Step-by-Step Wrap-Up
And there you have it—a step-by-step guide to making Creamy Broccoli Pasta that’s rich, flavorful, and foolproof. Every step builds on the last, ensuring you end up with a perfectly balanced dish. From the tender pasta to the vibrant broccoli and creamy parmesan sauce, this is comfort food at its best.
If you love this recipe, be sure to explore similar creamy dishes on my site like Creamy Turkey Gnocchi Soup and Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. Each one comes with its own step-by-step instructions to help you cook confidently and deliciously every time.
What to Serve with Creamy Broccoli Pasta
This pasta shines all on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, pair it with a crisp side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A squeeze of lemon on top can also brighten the flavors. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent companions. And if you’re keeping things vegetarian, try it alongside a bowl of Green Goddess Soup or a roasted veggie medley. Honestly, it’s the kind of dish that fits any mood—whether it’s a solo dinner with Netflix or a weekend family feast.
Key Tips for Making Creamy Broccoli Pasta
- Salt your pasta water. It’s your first chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself.
- Cook al dente. Slightly firm pasta holds up better in creamy sauces.
- Mind the garlic. Garlic cooks fast—keep an eye on it to avoid bitterness.
- Use fresh Parmesan. It melts smoother and gives that restaurant-style creaminess.
- Adjust consistency. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed—it keeps things silky without dulling flavor.
If you love creamy dishes, you’ll also enjoy my Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce before microwaving for a couple of minutes. If you prefer the stovetop, warm it over low heat and stir frequently. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good (if not better) the next day. Avoid freezing—cream sauces tend to separate once thawed. For more tips on storing creamy meals safely, check out USDA Food Safety Guidelines.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta lighter?
Yes! Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or try evaporated milk for a lighter but still creamy texture.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely—just thaw and drain it before cooking to avoid watering down the sauce.
What other cheeses can I use?
Asiago, Romano, or even a touch of cream cheese can make fun variations.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Broccoli Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight meal—quick, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s a little indulgence that still feels wholesome, thanks to the vibrant broccoli and simple ingredients. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself, this is one recipe that’s sure to become part of your regular rotation. So grab that pot, pour a little cream, and let’s make dinnertime deliciously easy.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
Creamy Broccoli Pasta – Quick, Easy, and Irresistibly Delicious
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Perfectly sautéed broccoli and mini shells are tossed together in a rich parmesan cheese sauce to make this quick and easy Creamy Broccoli Pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces mini shells or any small shaped pasta
- 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the broccoli softens.
5. Add the heavy cream and ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Bring to a boil then simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the Parmesan cheese and cooked pasta. Toss everything together and cook for another minute.
7. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and serve.
Notes
Salt your pasta water generously to enhance flavor.
Cook pasta to al dente to prevent mushiness.
Don’t burn the garlic—30 seconds is all it needs.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheat with a splash of milk or water in the microwave or on the stovetop.
