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 pasta (any type); 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup milk; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Ready-in-Minutes Recipes

Create a delicious and creamy One Pot Broccoli Pasta that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender pasta with vibrant broccoli and a rich cheese sauce, all cooked together for easy cleanup.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-02T08:42:31.678Z

Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's a comforting dish the whole family will love while being simple enough to whip up in no time.

Quick and Convenient

When life gets busy, quick and easy meals become a necessity, and this One Pot Broccoli Pasta perfectly fits the bill. Not only does it save time with just one pot to clean at the end, but it also minimizes the hassle of prepping multiple dishes. You can whip up a wholesome dinner in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when you're short on time but still want to serve something nutritious to your family.

This dish is versatile enough to cater to various taste preferences. Whether you're looking for a vegetarian meal or trying to sneak more veggies into your children's diets, this One Pot Broccoli Pasta checks all the boxes. Plus, the addition of broccoli provides a colorful touch while intensifying the nutritional value of the meal.

Delicious and Nutritious

Broccoli is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and numerous antioxidants. Including it in this creamy pasta not only elevates the dish's flavor but also boosts its health benefits significantly. This recipe encourages healthy eating patterns by showcasing vegetables in a delicious way, making it easier for even picky eaters to enjoy.

The creamy cheddar cheese sauce adds a comforting element to this dish while being a kid-friendly option. Balancing indulgent flavors with wholesome ingredients ensures that every bite is both satisfying and nourishing. This One Pot Broccoli Pasta proves that comfort food can also be good for you, setting the stage for guilt-free indulgence.

Customization Ideas

One of the great things about this One Pot Broccoli Pasta is its adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Feel free to substitute the pasta type; whole grain or gluten-free options work just as well. If you want to amp up the protein, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.

For an extra flavor kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. You can also try different cheeses such as mozzarella or Parmesan to create a unique flavor profile that suits your palate. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that you can recreate this dish again and again while keeping it fresh and exciting.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (any type)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup milk
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the dish:

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add pasta, broccoli, vegetable broth, and milk. Bring to a boil.

Simmer and Stir

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender.

Add Cheese and Season

Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Make sure to place it in an airtight container, and it will keep for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to regain some of the creaminess as it can thicken when stored.

Leftovers from this One Pot Broccoli Pasta can also be reinvented! Consider using it as a base for a new dish. For instance, you can turn it into a pasta bake by transferring it to a baking dish, topping it with more cheese, and baking until golden and bubbly. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the same meal in a different style.

Pairing Suggestions

This delightful One Pot Broccoli Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. A simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch that everyone will love. You can even elevate the dining experience by pairing it with a light white wine if you enjoy a glass with dinner.

For a heartier meal, consider serving this pasta alongside grilled chicken or steak. The creamy sauce complements meat options beautifully, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy the versatility of this dish and let it inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just adjust the cooking time slightly.

→ What pasta works best for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.