Description

This Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Broccoli Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a savory garlic butter sauce, this dish comes together effortlessly in one pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste. Optional Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes add a delightful richness and gentle heat, making it a versatile and comforting dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice)
1 1/2 cups broccoli florets

Sauce and Seasonings

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Heat Oil and Butter: In a large pot, heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat until the butter is fully melted, creating a rich base for the sauce.
Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, allowing the garlic to infuse the oil and butter with flavor.
Add Pasta: Stir in the pasta, coating it thoroughly with the garlic butter mixture to enhance the taste of the noodles.
Pour Broth and Simmer: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, preparing the pasta to cook and absorb the liquid.
Add Broccoli and Continue Cooking: Stir in the broccoli florets and let the pasta and broccoli simmer together for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust Liquid if Needed: If the pasta absorbs most of the liquid before fully cooking, add a bit more broth or water as necessary to keep it from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor and creaminess.
Combine and Thicken Sauce: Stir everything together until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the pasta and broccoli deliciously.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve while hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Notes

Use gluten-free pasta if you want a gluten-free version of this dish.
Vegetarian broth can be used to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
For a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan butter and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.