Creamy Broccoli Pasta

5 from 2 votes

Creamy Broccoli Pasta

This Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Fresh broccoli and tender pasta are tossed in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. A simple, satisfying dinner for any night of the week!

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Course: Pasta recipes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: creamy broccoli pasta, pasta recipes

Servings:

Author: Tatiana

Ingredients

For The Sauce:

1 cup chicken broth
1 cup half and half
½ chicken bouillon cube
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper or to taste
½ teaspoon EACH: basil oregano, parsley

For The Pasta:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic gloves finely minced
2 tablespoons flour
1 3/4 cups broccoli very finely chopped
½ pound Gemelli pasta or Rotini, Fusilli, Cavatappi, Penne, or Rigatoni
1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

Note: For best results, use a food processor to finely chop the broccoli into small, even pieces.
Prep Ingredients: Combine the chicken broth, half-and-half, 1/2 bouillon cube, and seasonings in a large measuring cup. Measure out the remaining ingredients before starting.
Sauté Garlic: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Make the Roux: Whisk in the flour with the garlic butter and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
Build the Sauce: Gradually add the chicken broth mixture in small splashes, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the broccoli and bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.
Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat of the sauce to low and stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken and allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.
Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish as desired, and serve immediately!

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent drying out.

Nutrition