Print

One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Pasta

Close-up of creamy broccoli pasta made with penne, topped with fresh parsley.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this easy, creamy broccoli pasta in one pot. It combines tender broccoli florets and pasta in a velvety Parmesan sauce, ready in under 30 minutes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  2. Add the pasta, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Continue to cook, uncovered, for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of hot water or extra broth until you reach your desired consistency.
  6. Stir in the red pepper flakes, if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve immediately in bowls, topping each serving with extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a healthier version, substitute half the heavy cream with milk or use low-sodium broth.
  • If you prefer a smoother sauce, reserve a few broccoli florets before adding them in step 4, then blend them with the cream in a separate container before stirring them in at the end.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://alchemychef.com/one-pot-creamy-broccoli-pasta-recipe/