Looking for a quick, comforting, and veggie-packed pasta dish? This Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is ready in under 20 minutes and makes the perfect weeknight dinner or cozy Friday night meal. Bursting with cheesy flavor, garlicky goodness, and tender broccoli, it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Whether you’re craving a simple pasta dinner or a creamy indulgence, this recipe delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it uses only a handful of main ingredients and comes together in just one skillet!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Veggie-Friendly: Packed with fresh broccoli for a nutritious boost.
- Cheesy Comfort: A creamy sauce loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters—cheese hides the veggies!
- Customizable: Swap pasta types, cheeses, or even use non-dairy cream.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 g (about 4 cups) broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 8 oz Parmesan cheese, shredded
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 16 oz ditalini pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, and cook until translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Season with 1 tsp salt. - Cook the broccoli:
Stir in the chopped broccoli and sauté for another 5 minutes, until tender but still bright green. Add a pinch more salt if needed. - Make the creamy sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded mozzarella and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat. - Cook the pasta:
Meanwhile, cook your pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. - Combine pasta and sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and sauce. Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until the sauce coats the pasta evenly. - Finish with Parmesan:
Remove from heat and sprinkle in the Parmesan. Toss gently until melted and combined. - Serve immediately:
Plate the pasta hot, with extra Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
- Pasta: Use elbow macaroni, small shells, penne, or any pasta you have on hand.
- Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone or Monterey Jack; Parmesan can be Pecorino or Grana Padano.
- Cream: Substitute half-and-half, evaporated milk, or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Broccoli: Frozen florets work fine—just thaw and sauté until tender.
- Quick flavor boost: Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or in the microwave.
- Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper on top for a restaurant-style finish.
This Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a fast, flavorful, and family-friendly recipe that turns simple ingredients into a rich, indulgent pasta dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or anyone craving comfort food without the fuss.