Creamy Broccoli Pasta That Hits the Spot!

Name: Creamy Broccoli Pasta That Hits the Spot!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting richness of this Creamy Broccoli Pasta, a delightful dish that perfectly combines tender broccoli and al dente pasta enveloped in a luxurious cheese sauce. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a cheesy lover's dream come true. Quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, this creamy pasta will quickly become a family favorite at your dinner table.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-03T16:23:59.289Z

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen preparing dinner. This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is not only quick to whip together, but it also delivers on flavor and satisfaction. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can bring a comforting and hearty pasta dish to your family’s table in under 30 minutes.

Families with busy schedules will appreciate how this recipe accommodates their needs without compromising on taste or nutrition. The combination of tender pasta and vibrant broccoli makes this dish visually appealing as well, enticing even the pickiest eaters.

Healthy Benefits of Broccoli

Incorporating broccoli into your meals adds a nutritious punch. This leafy green vegetable is packed with vitamins C and K, along with antioxidants that promote overall health. By adding broccoli to your pasta, you’re not only enhancing the dish’s flavor and texture but also boosting its nutritional value.

Broccoli also offers fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full. This makes Creamy Broccoli Pasta a great option if you're looking to create balanced meals that your family will love while also incorporating healthy ingredients.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best parts of this Creamy Broccoli Pasta is how adaptable it is. Feel free to switch up the choice of cheese based on your family's preferences or availability. Whether you prefer mozzarella for a gooey texture or gouda for a smoky flavor, the possibilities are endless.

Additionally, this recipe allows for a variety of mix-ins. Toss in some grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the dish to new heights. Personalizing your meal ensures that everyone at the table enjoys what's served, making it a true family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta of your choice
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, then stir in the shredded cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Enjoy your creamy broccoli pasta!

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful dining experience, serve your Creamy Broccoli Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The contrasting textures and flavors will complement the richness of the pasta beautifully, making your meal feel complete.

If you’d like to elevate the occasion, consider pairing this dish with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The crisp acidity of these wines balances the creaminess of the pasta perfectly.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating the pasta is simple; just add a splash of milk or cream to prevent dryness as you warm it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.

For best results, heat your leftovers gently to maintain the creamy texture. This dish also freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe to enjoy it at a later date. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations to Try

For those who love a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an added kick. This will give your Creamy Broccoli Pasta a delightful heat that can elevate the dish's flavor profile.

You can also experiment with using different types of pasta. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can easily be substituted without sacrificing flavor. This makes the dish accessible for various dietary preferences without losing that creamy goodness that everyone loves.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just add it to the boiling pasta a minute earlier than fresh broccoli.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if preferred.