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One-Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy, orange-sauced broccoli pasta (penne) next to a bright window.
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Make a satisfying, creamy broccoli pasta dish entirely in one pot for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add the pasta, vegetable broth, broccoli florets, salt, and pepper to the pot.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be nearly tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
  4. Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Continue to cook, uncovered, for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with an extra 1/2 cup of milk and add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water to thicken the sauce at the end.
  • If you prefer a stronger vegetable flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
  • Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavor profile.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://epicureempire.com/one-pot-creamy-broccoli-pasta/