One Pot Broccoli Pasta

Name: One Pot Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Create a deliciously creamy and comforting One Pot Broccoli Pasta that combines the goodness of fresh broccoli with perfectly cooked pasta, all in one pot for effortless cleanup. This quick and easy recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Infused with garlic and topped with cheese, it's sure to satisfy the whole family while saving you valuable time in the kitchen.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-12-09T02:27:24.785Z

This One Pot Broccoli Pasta is the epitome of comfort food. Perfect for those busy weeknights, it allows you to enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort.

A Quick and Nutritious Dinner Option

When life gets busy, finding the time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This One Pot Broccoli Pasta offers a quick solution without compromising on nutrition. Packed with fiber-rich broccoli and whole grains from the pasta, it provides essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to your overall health. Additionally, using vegetable broth enhances the flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also exceptionally easy to clean up. Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes and a faster transition from kitchen to dining room. In just 30 minutes, you can have a sumptuous dinner ready, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Enhanced Flavor Profile

The magic of this dish lies in its deliciously creamy texture and the infusion of garlic. Sautéing the minced garlic in olive oil before adding the pasta and broccoli creates a fragrant base that elevates the entire dish. Garlic is known for its health benefits, including boosting the immune system and enhancing heart health, making this pasta not just tasty but beneficial too.

Topping the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds an irresistible richness. The cheese melts beautifully, resulting in a comforting, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta. You can customize this further by adding different herbs or spices to suit your taste—try basil or red pepper flakes for an added kick!

Family-Friendly Appeal

One Pot Broccoli Pasta is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both adults and children. The vibrant green of the broccoli mixed with the pasta creates an inviting presentation that entices even the pickiest eaters. Its creamy texture and mild flavors ensure that everyone at the table will enjoy it, and you might even spark a love for vegetables in your little ones.

For those who want to personalize their meal, this recipe acts as a fantastic base. Feel free to add protein options like grilled chicken or chickpeas, making it a versatile dish that can easily accommodate various dietary preferences. This ensures that everyone in the family gets to enjoy a meal tailored to their liking.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients to make your preparation easier.

Instructions

Cook the Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the Pasta and Broccoli

Add the penne pasta, broccoli florets, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil.

Simmer and Cook

Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the broccoli is tender.

Add Cheese and Season

Once done, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and serve hot.

Enjoy your creamy, comforting One Pot Broccoli Pasta!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Leftovers of this One Pot Broccoli Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the pot while warming it over low heat to prevent it from drying out. This makes it perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious lunch ready to go.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions of the pasta. Divide into individual servings and store in freezer-safe bags. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat. This way, you can always have a comforting meal on hand, ready in minutes.

Variations to Try

This One Pot Broccoli Pasta is highly customizable. If you want to incorporate more vegetables, consider adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers. These additions will not only boost the nutritional content but also enhance the color and texture of the dish, making it even more appealing.

For a richer flavor, experiment with adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice during the cooking process. This can add an extra layer of depth to the dish, making it a standout at your dinner table. Remember, cooking is all about creativity—so make it your own!

Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable that deserves a spot in your regular meals. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and dietary fiber, it plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation and boosting your immune system. Including broccoli in your diet can contribute to better heart health and may even aid in weight management due to its low calorie and high fiber content.

Incorporating this superfood into your meals is a delicious way to enhance your overall health. When combined with whole grains and healthy fats from the olive oil, this One Pot Broccoli Pasta not only satisfies your hunger but also supports your nutritional needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for added nutrition and color.