Introduction
Get ready for a deliciously simple dinner with this Creamy One Pot Broccoli Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, combining fresh broccoli and a rich, creamy sauce all cooked together in a single pot. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal with minimal cleanup. For another quick and creamy vegetarian option, try this Creamy Vegetarian Tortellini Soup with Kale Recipe.
Ingredients
This one pot broccoli pasta recipe combines creamy, savory, and bright flavors in a single dish, with the pasta cooking directly in the rich sauce for maximum flavor.
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 ¼ cups half and half (or whole milk for a lighter sauce)
- ½ lb. medium pasta shells (or other short pasta like rotini)
- 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
Timing
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
Context: This One Pot Broccoli Pasta recipe is ready in about 25 minutes, making it roughly 30% faster than similar multi-pot pasta dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients
Measure out all ingredients before you begin. You’ll need pasta, fresh broccoli florets, garlic, vegetable broth, and your preferred seasonings. Having everything ready makes this one pot broccoli pasta recipe quick and easy to execute.
Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
Step 3 — Combine Pasta and Broth
Add the dry pasta and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is mostly submerged. The liquid should just cover the pasta; this concentrated cooking method is key for a flavorful, starchy sauce in your one pot pasta.
Step 4 — Cook the Pasta
Bring the broth to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a steady simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be just shy of al dente before the next step.
Step 5 — Add the Broccoli
Place the broccoli florets on top of the simmering pasta. Do not stir them in yet. Replace the lid and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. The broccoli will steam perfectly, becoming tender-crisp and bright green.
Step 6 — Finish the Sauce
Remove the lid. Stir everything together, allowing the residual heat to finish cooking the pasta to al dente. The starchy, reduced broth will coat everything. Stir in a splash of lemon juice, a handful of grated Parmesan, and a knob of butter or a drizzle of cream for richness.
Step 7 — Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste your one pot broccoli pasta and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. For a fresh finish, garnish with extra Parmesan, lemon zest, or chopped herbs. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 65g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. This one pot broccoli pasta is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K.
Healthier Alternatives
This one pot broccoli pasta is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs or pantry.
- Protein Swap — Replace the sausage with lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use canned chickpeas for a plant-based protein that adds a pleasant, nutty texture.
- Lower-Carb Option — Swap the regular pasta for a whole wheat or legume-based variety like chickpea pasta. For an even lower-carb meal, use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
- Dairy-Free Version — Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternative to keep the savory, umami flavor without dairy.
- Gluten-Free Pasta — Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, such as one made from brown rice or corn. Be sure to check your broth or sausage labels to ensure they are also gluten-free.
- Low-Sodium Adjustment — Use a low-sodium or no-salt-added vegetable broth and skip any added salt. The natural saltiness from the Parmesan and sausage (if using) often provides enough flavor.
- Extra Veggies — Boost the nutrition by adding a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and vitamins.
- Creamier Texture — For a richer, creamier one pot broccoli pasta without heavy cream, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of canned coconut milk at the end.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this creamy one pot broccoli pasta with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a fresh, bright contrast.
- Serve it as a comforting weeknight dinner alongside crusty garlic bread or a slice of focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Elevate it for a casual gathering by adding a protein like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for extra heartiness.
- For a lighter meal, plate it in a shallow bowl and garnish with extra grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of good olive oil.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep—portion it into containers for easy, flavorful lunches throughout the week.
- Turn it into a complete vegetarian feast by starting with a roasted tomato soup and finishing with a scoop of lemon sorbet.
Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or an easy dish to share, this one pot broccoli pasta is wonderfully versatile and always satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Overcooking the broccoli into a mushy, gray mess. Fix: Add the broccoli florets in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender-crisp.
- Mistake: Using too little liquid, causing the pasta to stick and burn. Fix: Ensure the liquid (broth/water) covers the pasta by about half an inch, and stir occasionally during the first few minutes.
- Mistake: Adding all ingredients at once, leading to uneven cooking. Fix: Sauté aromatics like garlic first, then add liquid and pasta, saving the broccoli and dairy for the final stage.
- Mistake: Choosing the wrong pasta shape, which can become gummy. Fix: Opt for short, sturdy shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle that cook evenly and hold the sauce well.
- Mistake: Skipping the seasoning of the cooking liquid. Fix: Generously salt your broth or water, as this is the primary chance to season the pasta itself from within.
- Mistake: Neglecting to reserve pasta water before draining (if draining). Fix: Save a cup of the starchy water to adjust the sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta beautifully.
- Mistake: Crowding the pot, which steams rather than simmers the ingredients. Fix: Use a wide, shallow pan or Dutch oven to allow for proper evaporation and even heat distribution.
- Mistake: Forgetting to finish with acidity or freshness. Fix: Brighten the final one pot broccoli pasta with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest to cut through the richness.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Cool the pasta completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until steaming hot. You can also use a microwave, covering the dish and stirring halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
For best texture, avoid overcooking when reheating. The broccoli may soften slightly after storage, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Conclusion
This One Pot Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. We hope you love this easy recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For more simple, crowd-pleasing meals like these Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe, be sure to subscribe.
Print
Broccoli Pasta
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
- Measure out all ingredients prior to beginning. (This is called “mise en place” and is a good idea for quick recipes.) Pro Tip: Cut the broccoli into smaller pieces so that they cook more quickly.
- Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the chicken broth, half and half, and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil and add the pasta. Submerge the pasta into the liquid and let it return to a boil. Cook partially covered according to package instructions. Add the broccoli during the last 6 minutes. Run a silicone spatula along the bottom of the pan occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to it.
- Remove cover taste-test a pasta noodle for doneness before proceeding. If needed, cover and cook longer, until your desired doneness is obtained.
- Remove from heat. Add the lemon juice and use a silicone spatula to gently mix in the Parmesan cheese.
- Sauce will continue to thicken upon standing. Garnish with parsley and serve with garlic bread with cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this one pot broccoli pasta?
Yes, you can use most short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta cooks evenly in the liquid. The key to this one pot broccoli pasta is using a pasta that absorbs the sauce well.
How can I make this recipe more creamy?
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end of cooking. You can also blend a portion of the cooked broccoli into the sauce before serving your one pot broccoli pasta.
Can I add protein to this one pot broccoli pasta?
Absolutely. Cooked chicken sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or canned white beans are excellent additions. Stir in pre-cooked proteins during the last few minutes to warm through without overcooking.