Broccoli Pasta

Broccoli Pasta: A Quick and Creamy Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that’s both satisfying and wholesome, this Broccoli Pasta is the perfect recipe for you. With tender pasta shells smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and loaded with vibrant broccoli florets, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something homemade and hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Pasta:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 ¼ cups half and half
• ½ lb. medium pasta shells
• 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

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients (Mise en Place)

1. Get Ready:
   Before you start cooking, measure out all your ingredients. Cut the broccoli into smaller pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. This preparation step, known as “mise en place,” will make the cooking process much smoother and more efficient.

2. Melt the Butter

1. Start the Sauce:
   In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.

3. Add Liquids & Seasonings

1. Build the Base:
   Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 ¼ cups of half and half. Then, add ¼ teaspoon each of onion powder, dried thyme, and salt, along with ½ teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried parsley. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

4. Cook the Pasta

1. Add the Pasta Shells:
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then add ½ lb. of medium pasta shells. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Allow it to return to a boil, then partially cover the skillet and cook according to the pasta package instructions, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the Broccoli

1. Cook the Broccoli:
   In the last 6 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add 3 ½ cups of broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking and to ensure the broccoli cooks evenly.

6. Check Doneness

1. Test the Pasta:
   After the pasta has cooked, remove the cover and taste-test a pasta shell for doneness. If it needs more time, cover and cook for an additional minute or two until the pasta is perfectly tender.

7. Finish the Dish

1. Add the Final Touches:
   Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 2 teaspoons of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, and then gently mix in ¾ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese using a silicone spatula. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding a rich, savory flavor.

8. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let It Rest:
   Allow the pasta to stand for a minute or two so the sauce can thicken slightly. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, and serve immediately with a side of garlic bread with cheese for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and fresh, crisp vegetables. The combination of flavors is both comforting and refreshing, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this easy-to-make pasta dish is sure to impress.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

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