One Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta

This creamy broccoli pasta is a weeknight hero in our house, warm, cheesy, and made in just one pot! Shell pasta catches all the sauce in the best way, and the broccoli makes it feel just a little wholesome. It’s the perfect comfort food when you're recovering from Christmas cooking marathons or need a quick dinner before movie night with the family.

By @quotidianrecipes

Original recipe source

Cook time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 cups small shell pasta
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 0 to taste salt
• 0 to taste pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp cream cheese
• 0 optional crushed red pepper
• 0 optional lemon zest

Instructions

1. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the uncooked pasta, broccoli, broth, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese (if using) until melted and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let it sit for a minute or two to thicken before serving.
6. Garnish with red pepper flakes or lemon zest if you like a little kick or brightness.