Description
Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a delightful vegetarian dish that combines perfectly cooked penne pasta and tender broccoli florets enveloped in a rich and velvety cheese sauce. This comforting meal is not only quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes, but it’s also packed with nutrition, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or festive family gatherings. The creamy texture and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike, ensuring it becomes an instant favorite at your table. Garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan, this dish is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook penne according to package instructions; add broccoli in the last 2 minutes. Drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux; gradually add vegetable broth and cream until thickened (about 4-5 minutes).
- Stir in Parmesan until melted; season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Combine cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce; finish with lemon juice and basil.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg