Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta
A delicious dish combining creamy textures with vibrant broccoli, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (like penne or fusilli) Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Broccoli
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets Cut into bite-sized pieces.
Cheese
- 1 cup grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or Parmesan) Grate fresh for melting.
Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream Create a luxurious sauce.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Cook until fragrant.
Seasonings
- salt and pepper, to taste
- optional red pepper flakes For a hint of heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, saving about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same pot, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cooking
- Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add 1 cup of grated cheese, mixing well to melt into the sauce. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring well to coat every piece and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding in cooked chicken or shrimp. Customize vegetables to include spinach or peas. Drizzle olive oil before serving for richness.