Dinner

One Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

BySimon Carel November 18, 2025November 18, 2025

Introduction

This one pot creamy broccoli pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender broccoli, rich Parmesan, and a flavorful garlic cream sauce, it’s an easy dish that everyone will love.

The image shows a close-up of creamy pasta with small broccoli florets, held in a white spoon above a white pot filled with the same dish. The pasta shells are light beige with a smooth, slightly shiny surface, coated in a creamy white sauce that clings to the grooves and curves of each piece. Bright green broccoli florets are scattered throughout the pasta, adding a fresh contrast in color and texture. The background features a white marbled surface that highlights the warm tones of the pasta and green broccoli, while the cozy, thick sauce gives the dish a comforting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box medium shells pasta
4 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1.5 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and lightly season with salt and pepper. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bring the liquid to a boil, then stir in the pasta. Cover the pot with a lid and cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot. Cover again and cook for another 4 minutes, or until both the pasta and broccoli are tender.
Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, replace the lid, and turn off the heat. Let the sauce thicken for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and garlic powder if needed. Stir everything together well, serve warm, and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Try adding cooked chicken or crispy bacon for extra protein.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for a fresh flavor boost.
If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more broth or cream as needed during cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

The image shows creamy broccoli pasta with shell-shaped noodles mixed evenly with small bright green broccoli florets. The pasta is coated in a smooth, beige-colored creamy sauce that makes it look soft and moist. The filling inside some shells is visible, showing a bit of the creamy sauce inside. The dish is displayed against a white marbled surface, highlighting the light colors and textures of the pasta and broccoli. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well—just add it at the same time as fresh broccoli and cook until tender.

What pasta can I substitute if I don’t have medium shells?

Any short pasta like elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or penne will work well for this dish.