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One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Pasta

A close-up shot of creamy broccoli pasta made with penne noodles, vibrant green broccoli florets, and topped with pepper.

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You make this comforting, creamy broccoli parmesan pasta in a single pot. Tender broccoli florets mix with a silky cheese sauce, coating every noodle. This recipe is ready in 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  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 about 10 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.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately in bowls, topping each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if you like.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the vegetable broth with chicken broth.
  • If the sauce seems too thick after adding the cheese, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe is vegetarian, but you can add cooked, shredded chicken to make it a heartier meal.

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