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Creamy Broccoli Pasta

A luxuriously creamy one-pot pasta dish combining al dente shells with tender broccoli florets in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. This comforting meal comes together quickly for a perfect weeknight dinner that both kids and adults will love.  
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main-course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Base
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ pound medium pasta shells
  • Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1¼ cups half and half
  • ¾ cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • Vegetables & Seasonings
  • 3½ cups broccoli florets uncooked
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley

Method
 

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Cut the broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces and measure out all remaining ingredients. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process smooth and efficient, as this recipe moves quickly once you start cooking.
  2. Create the Base: In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Then pour in the chicken broth and half and half, followed by all seasonings (onion powder, thyme, salt, oregano, and parsley), stirring to combine.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Once the liquid comes to a boil, add the pasta shells to the pot. Partially cover the pot and cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When 6 minutes of cooking time remain, add the broccoli florets to the pot, allowing them to cook alongside the pasta until tender-crisp.
  4. Finish the Sauce: After the pasta and broccoli are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the pot from heat. Add the lemon juice and gently stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Allow the pasta to sit for 2-3 minutes before serving, as the sauce will continue to thicken upon standing.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
  • Fresh broccoli works best in this recipe, but frozen can be used in a pinch - just add it in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking instead.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the creamy sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.
  • For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans.