Introduction

This easy one-pot broccoli pasta recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, creamy, and satisfying weeknight dinner. Ready in just 20 minutes, it minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. For another simple and delicious vegetarian pasta dish, try this Creamy Vegetarian Tortellini Soup with Kale Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to get a comforting meal on the table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

This one pot broccoli pasta recipe comes together with a handful of simple ingredients, creating a creamy, garlicky sauce that clings perfectly to every pasta shell and tender floret.

• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 ¼ cups half and half (or whole milk for a lighter sauce)
• ½ lb. medium pasta shells (or other short pasta like rotini)
• ¼ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, dried thyme, salt
• ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, dried parsley
• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets, uncooked
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese, finely grated into a powder

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This One Pot Broccoli Pasta is ready in about 25 minutes, making it roughly 20% faster than similar recipes that require separate pots for pasta and sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Ingredients

Chop one head of broccoli into small florets and mince 3 cloves of garlic. Measure out 12 ounces of short pasta, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative. Having everything ready makes this one pot broccoli pasta come together seamlessly.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, sautéing for just 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.

Step 3 — Combine Pasta and Broth

Add the dry pasta and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged. Bring the liquid to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a steady simmer. This is the foundation of your creamy one pot pasta.

Step 4 — Cook the Pasta

Let the pasta simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be just shy of al dente and most of the broth will be absorbed. This partial absorption is key for the sauce that forms later.

Step 5 — Add the Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 3–4 more minutes. The broccoli should steam until it is bright green and tender-crisp. Check for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork.

Step 6 — Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously over low heat for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and a luxuriously creamy sauce coats the pasta and broccoli. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or broth.

Step 7 — Season and Finish

Turn off the heat. Season your one pot broccoli pasta generously with salt and black pepper to taste. For a fresh finish, stir in the zest and juice of half a lemon and a handful of chopped fresh parsley.

Step 8 — Serve Immediately

Divide the pasta among bowls. For extra richness, top with more Parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil. This dish is best served hot, as the creamy sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~420 kcal
Protein	~18 g
Carbohydrates	~65 g
Fat	~12 g
Fiber	~8 g
Sodium	~480 mg

Note: Estimates are per serving for this One Pot Broccoli Pasta and are based on typical ingredients and serving size. Values can vary based on specific brands and measurements used.

Healthier Alternatives

This one pot broccoli pasta is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs or pantry.

• Protein Swap (Chicken Sausage) — Use sliced smoked chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage for a leaner option with a similar savory, smoky flavor.
• Lower-Carb Option (Zucchini Noodles) — Replace half the pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles added in the last few minutes of cooking for a veggie boost and fewer carbs.
• Dairy-Free Version (Nutritional Yeast) — Omit the Parmesan and stir in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast at the end for a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.
• Gluten-Free Pasta — Use a sturdy gluten-free pasta like brown rice or lentil pasta. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly as some varieties absorb more broth.
• Low-Sodium Adjustment (Low-Sodium Broth) — Choose a low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth and rely on garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs for big flavor without the salt.
• Extra Veggies (Sun-Dried Tomatoes) — Add a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the broccoli for a sweet, tangy pop and extra fiber.
• Lighter Creaminess (Greek Yogurt) — For a lighter sauce, stir in a few spoonfuls of plain Greek yogurt off the heat instead of heavy cream or extra cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this one pot broccoli pasta with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Serve it as a hearty main for a casual weeknight dinner, or pack the leftovers for a satisfying next-day lunch.
• For a protein boost, top each bowl with grilled chicken strips, flaked canned tuna, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts.
• Elevate the plating by finishing with extra grated Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving.
• This dish is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings—it’s easy to transport and scales up beautifully for a crowd.
• For a complete Italian-inspired meal, start with a classic bruschetta and finish with a light dessert like lemon sorbet.

Whether you’re looking for a quick solo meal or a fuss-free dinner for guests, this one pot broccoli pasta is wonderfully versatile and always delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the broccoli into a mushy, gray mess. Fix: Add the florets during the last few minutes of simmering to retain vibrant color and a slight bite.
• Mistake: Using too little liquid, leading to starchy, clumped pasta. Fix: Ensure the liquid covers the pasta by about half an inch and use a wide, shallow pan for even cooking.
• Mistake: Adding all ingredients at once. Fix: Sauté aromatics like garlic first to build a flavor base before adding liquid and pasta.
• Mistake: Neglecting to season the cooking water. Fix: Salt the water generously, as it’s your only chance to season the pasta from within.
• Mistake: Skipping the cheese stir-in at the end. Fix: Off the heat, stir in grated Parmesan or pecorino to create a creamy, emulsified sauce.
• Mistake: Using a pot that’s too small, causing boil-overs and uneven cooking. Fix: Choose a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven with ample surface area.
• Mistake: Forgetting to reserve pasta water. Fix: Scoop out a cup of starchy water before draining; it’s the secret to adjusting sauce consistency.
• Mistake: Overcrowding with broccoli. Fix: Use a 1:1 ratio by weight of pasta to broccoli for the perfect balance, ensuring the pasta cooks through.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the pasta completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth over medium-low heat, stirring until hot throughout. You can also use a microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

For best texture, avoid overcooking when reheating. The broccoli may soften slightly after freezing, but the dish will still be delicious.

Conclusion

This One Pot Broccoli Pasta recipe is a fantastic, fuss-free meal that delivers on flavor and simplicity. We hope you love this easy dinner as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. For more delicious one-pot wonders, check out our Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this one pot broccoli pasta?

Yes, you can use most short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells. Just ensure the cooking time aligns with the package instructions, as it may slightly alter the liquid needed for this one pot broccoli pasta recipe.

How can I make this recipe creamier?

For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream, a dollop of cream cheese, or a few tablespoons of grated Parmesan at the end of cooking. This adds richness without compromising the easy, one-pot method.

Is it possible to add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. For added protein, incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or canned chickpeas. Add pre-cooked proteins at the end to warm through, or simmer raw shrimp in the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.