Quick Broccoli Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that combines comfort, flavor, and nutrition, this Quick Broccoli Pasta recipe is the perfect choice. Ready in just 25 minutes, this creamy broccoli pasta is ideal for busy weeknights, a tasty hot lunch, or even a simple side dish. With tender pasta, crisp broccoli florets, and a creamy cheesy sauce, every bite delivers a wholesome balance of flavors that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces medium pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite short pasta)
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup chicken broth (not low sodium)
• 1 cup half and half or light cream
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

1. Cook pasta and broccoli – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 4 minutes of cooking. Drain well (do not rinse) and set aside.
2. Make the sauce – In the same saucepan, whisk together chicken broth, cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and begins to boil.
3. Add the cheese – Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and parmesan until melted and smooth.
4. Combine and serve – Toss the pasta and broccoli with the sauce, season with salt and black pepper, and serve hot.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Quick Broccoli Pasta is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy and smooth. Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy cheese sauce may separate when thawed.

Variations with Details

1. Broccoli Alfredo Pasta – Swap the cheddar with cream cheese and extra parmesan for a rich Alfredo-inspired version. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg for depth.

2. Lemon Garlic Broccoli Pasta – Add lemon zest and fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor. Fresh garlic sautéed in butter before adding the sauce base makes it extra aromatic.

3. Broccoli Mac and Cheese – Increase the cheddar to 2 cups and bake the pasta in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs for a baked macaroni twist.

4. Italian-Style Broccoli Pasta – Use mozzarella and provolone instead of cheddar, then top with fresh basil or oregano for an Italian flair.

5. Greek-Inspired Broccoli Pasta – Stir in kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

6. Broccoli and Sausage Pasta – Add cooked Italian sausage slices for a hearty, savory addition that pairs beautifully with the cheesy sauce.

7. Broccoli and Ham Pasta – Stir in cubed ham for a smoky, salty contrast that balances the creamy sauce.

8. Vegan Broccoli Pasta – Replace cream with unsweetened oat milk and use vegan cheese shreds or nutritional yeast for cheesiness. A touch of cashew cream makes it extra creamy.

9. Broccoli and Tomato Pasta – Add roasted cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for pops of sweetness and acidity.

10. Broccoli Carbonara-Inspired Pasta – Mix in crispy pancetta or bacon and whisk in an egg yolk off the heat for a silky, carbonara-style sauce.

11. Broccoli and Ricotta Pasta – Dollop creamy ricotta cheese into the sauce before serving for an extra luxurious texture.

12. Broccoli and Goat Cheese Pasta – Swap cheddar for tangy goat cheese for a unique, creamy, and slightly tart twist.

13. Broccoli and Pesto Cream Pasta – Stir 2–3 tablespoons of basil pesto into the sauce for a herby, fresh flavor boost.

14. Broccoli and Blue Cheese Pasta – For a bold flavor, add crumbled blue cheese into the sauce and garnish with toasted walnuts.

15. Broccoli Cajun Pasta – Season the sauce with Cajun seasoning or blackened spice mix for a smoky, slightly spicy Southern twist.

16. Broccoli and Gnocchi – Replace pasta with potato gnocchi for pillowy bites coated in creamy broccoli cheese sauce.

17. Broccoli and Quinoa Pasta Bowl – Swap pasta with quinoa or chickpea pasta for a protein-packed, gluten-free version.

18. Broccoli and Butternut Squash Pasta – Mix in roasted butternut squash cubes for a sweet and savory seasonal variation.

19. Broccoli and Mushroom Pasta – Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavor and extra heartiness.

20. Broccoli Four-Cheese Pasta – Combine cheddar, parmesan, mozzarella, and fontina for a decadent, restaurant-style pasta bake.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly. Add it in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking the pasta.

2. What pasta shapes work best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli hold the sauce best, but spaghetti or fettuccine can also be used.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine before serving.

4. How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?
Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded, and remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese.

5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

6. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely, whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and a nutty flavor.

7. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option.

8. Can I add more protein?
Yes, cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even ground turkey can be added.

9. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a little broth and whisk into the sauce.

10. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy cheesy sauce makes it a hit with kids, and it’s a great way to get them to eat more broccoli.

Quick Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that proves weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and fresh broccoli, you can create a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy families, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

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