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Broccoli Pasta: The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Pasta You’ll Make on Repeat

Broccoli Pasta: The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Pasta You’ll Make on Repeat
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This Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a quick and cozy 25-minute meal featuring tender pasta shells coated in a buttery Garlic Parmesan sauce. With herbs, a hint of lemon, and plenty of fresh broccoli, it’s the perfect weeknight comfort dish. Simple, flavorful, and made in one skillet — this pasta is guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 1 ¼ cups half and half

  • ½ lb medium pasta shells

  • ¼ tsp each: onion powder, dried thyme, salt

  • ½ tsp 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

1. Prepare Ingredients

Measure out all ingredients before beginning (mise en place).
Tip: Cut broccoli into smaller florets so they cook faster and blend better into the sauce.

2. Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add Liquids & Seasonings

Pour in chicken broth, half and half, and all seasonings.
Stir well to combine.

4. Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the pasta shells, ensuring they are submerged.
Return to a gentle boil, then cook partially covered according to pasta package instructions.

Add the broccoli during the last 6 minutes of cooking.
Stir occasionally, running a silicone spatula along the bottom to prevent sticking.

5. Check Doneness

Remove the cover and taste a pasta shell.
If needed, cover again and continue simmering until perfectly tender.

6. Finish the Sauce

Remove pan from heat.
Stir in lemon juice.
Gently fold in Parmesan with a silicone spatula until melted into a creamy sauce.

7. Serve

Let the pasta rest for a minute — the sauce will thicken as it stands.
Garnish with parsley and serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Cut broccoli small: It cooks quicker and blends beautifully into the creamy sauce.

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts smoother and prevents graininess.

  • Half and half substitution: Mix whole milk + a splash of heavy cream if needed.

  • Don’t overcook the pasta: It continues to soften as it sits in the sauce.

  • Make it extra creamy: Add 2 tablespoons cream cheese at the end.

  • Add protein: Great with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.

Find it online: https://chocotune.com/broccoli-pasta-the-ultimate-creamy-garlic-parmesan-broccoli-pasta-youll-make-on-repeat/