This Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a quick and healthy dish that combines the freshness of broccoli with the richness of garlic, olive oil, and parmesan cheese. The shell pasta soaks up all the flavorful sauce, making each bite satisfying and full of taste. It’s the perfect meal for busy nights when you want something comforting, nutritious, and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This garlic broccoli pasta is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crisp-tender broccoli, fragrant garlic, and slight heat from crushed red pepper complement the richness of parmesan cheese. The shell pasta is ideal for absorbing the garlic-infused olive oil, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in just a short amount of time, making this dish a great go-to for any occasion.

Garlic Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

1 large broccoli head, trimmed into small pieces
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 minced garlic cloves
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 ounces shell pasta
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta to blanch them. This will cook the broccoli until tender but still bright green.
Once the pasta and broccoli are done, drain them and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

While the pasta and broccoli cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.

3. Combine Pasta and Broccoli:

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil mixture. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta and broccoli are well coated in the garlic oil. If needed, add a little of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta and create a slightly saucy texture.

4. Add Cheese and Serve:

Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for added protein.
More veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the dish for extra color and nutrition.
Creamy version: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese for a creamy variation of this dish.
Spicy: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it’s too dry, add a little olive oil or pasta water to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli. Shell pasta works well because it holds the sauce and ingredients nicely, but feel free to use what you have on hand.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make it vegan by using dairy-free parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast instead of regular parmesan cheese.

3. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a more colorful and nutrient-packed dish.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and broccoli ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and then reheat with the garlic oil mixture when ready to serve.

5. How do I make the pasta extra creamy?

To make the dish creamy, add a bit of heavy cream, ricotta, or cream cheese to the garlic olive oil mixture while combining it with the pasta.

6. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli will work as a substitute for fresh broccoli. Just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the dish.

7. Can I use pre-grated parmesan?

While freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor and texture, you can use pre-grated parmesan if you’re in a pinch. The taste will still be great, but the texture might be a little different.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

While pasta dishes with cheese don’t always freeze well, you can freeze the pasta and broccoli mixture before adding the cheese. Once reheated, add the freshly grated parmesan and toss it all together.

9. How do I make this dish less oily?

If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of olive oil and substitute it with vegetable broth or water for a less oily texture.

10. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for a mild garlic flavor. Fresh garlic, however, provides a more robust taste.

Conclusion

Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a quick, simple, and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. With tender broccoli, perfectly cooked pasta, and the rich taste of garlic and parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a side dish, or a light lunch, it’s an easy recipe that can be customized to your taste. Try it tonight and enjoy a wholesome and flavorful meal!