Description
This Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian-inspired main course featuring tender pasta and vibrant broccoli florets in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it combines garlic, crushed tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese to create a luscious and flavorful dish that can be customized for a vegan option.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain both the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tomatoes and Basil: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the dried basil. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add Cream and Parmesan: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thickened.
- Toss Pasta and Broccoli in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything to coat evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the creamy tomato pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this dish heartier and add protein.
