Easy Pasta Con Broccoli

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this Easy Pasta Con Broccoli recipe—a creamy, comforting dish that comes together in just 30 minutes! Featuring al dente penne pasta and tender broccoli florets coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe balances rich, cheesy flavors with a touch of garlic and optional red pepper flakes for subtle heat. The combination of butter and olive oil ensures a luscious texture, while reserving pasta water allows you to achieve the perfect sauce consistency. Perfect for busy nights, this family-friendly dish requires minimal prep and uses simple pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Serve it as is or pair with crusty bread for a truly satisfying experience!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 6 quarts water for boiling pasta

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water (about 6 quarts) to a boil.

Step 2

Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions for al dente, typically 9-11 minutes.

Step 3

In the last 4-5 minutes of the pasta's cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta. Cook until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 4

Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli. Set aside.

Step 5

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil.

Step 6

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 7

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.

Step 8

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 9

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and broccoli are well-coated in the sauce.

Step 10

If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 11

Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 12

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	6785.8 grams (6785.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3141

Total Fat 187.70g	241%
Saturated Fat 103.90g	520%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 502mg	167%
Sodium 2744mg	119%
Total Carbohydrate 265.70g	97%
Dietary Fiber 19.60g	70%
Total Sugars 3.30g
Protein 85.10g	170%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1033mg	79%
Iron 15mg	83%
Potassium 739mg	16%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 54.6%

Protein: 11.0%

Carbs: 34.4%