Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a quintessential comfort food that combines the rich, velvety texture of cheese sauce with the nutritious punch of broccoli. This dish is beloved not just for its taste but for its ability to bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
What You Need – Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you will need:
- Broccoli: Fresh florets for the best flavor and nutrients.
- Pasta: Medium shells or fusilli to hold the sauce well.
- Garlic and Onion: For a flavorful base.
- Cheese: Parmesan, Asiago, or Romano for a rich, creamy texture.
- Milk and Cream: To create the luxurious sauce.
- Butter and Flour: For roux to thicken the sauce.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg.
For more on choosing the right ingredients, check out Healthy Eating Guidelines to understand how quality impacts flavor and health benefits.
How To make Creamy Broccoli Pasta
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince the garlic and dice the onion.
- Grate the cheese from a block to ensure it melts smoothly.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter and add flour, whisking to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk and cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add the garlic and onions, cooking until they are translucent.
- Stir in the grated cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, mixing well to ensure each piece is coated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Learn the specifics of different pasta shapes and how they complement various sauces by visiting Ultimate Guide to Pasta Shapes.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Creamy Broccoli Pasta provides:
- Calories: Approximately 500
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Rich in vitamins C and K, calcium, and iron.
Customizing Your Creamy Broccoli Pasta
- For Gluten-Free Diets: Use gluten-free pasta and thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead of flour.
- Vegan Variations: Substitute dairy with almond milk and vegan cheese.
- Adding Proteins: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian version.
Perfect Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with a crisp garden salad or garlic bread.
- Drinks: A glass of chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Common Mistakes and Cooking Tips
- Preventing Cheese Clumps: Add cheese to a slightly cooled sauce to prevent separation.
- Ensuring Perfect Pasta: Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be just tender.
- Enhancing Flavor: Season your water with salt when boiling pasta.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, though fresh is recommended for the best taste and texture. - What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. - How can I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Conclusion
Creamy Broccoli Pasta is more than just a dish; it’s a versatile, comforting experience that adapts to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a luxurious meal to impress guests, this pasta has it all. Give it a try and tweak it to make it your own!
Explore other comforting recipes like Broccoli Potato Soup for more hearty meal ideas.
Creamy Broccoli Pasta
This Creamy Broccoli Pasta has pasta shells smothered in a buttery Garlic Parmesan Sauce with herbs, a hint of lemon juice, and lots of broccoli!
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium pasta shells Ideal for holding the creamy sauce.
- 3 cups of fresh broccoli florets Provides texture and essential nutrients.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter For sautéing and adding richness.
- 2 Cloves of garlic, minced Adds a pungent flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour Used to thicken the sauce.
- 2 cups whole milk The base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream Enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty, salty flavor.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cook Broccoli
- In the last 3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add broccoli to the boiling pasta water. Drain with the pasta and set aside.
Make Roux
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onion, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stir to combine, and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Create Cream Sauce:
- Gradually add milk and cream while continuously stirring to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Combine Pasta and Broccoli
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli back into the pot with the sauce.
- Toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Cook over low heat for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
