Easy & Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Pasta

Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with nutrient-packed broccoli, this Broccoli Pasta is the perfect healthy and delicious weeknight meal! 🥦🍝

With tender pasta tossed in a light, flavorful garlic-Parmesan sauce and bright green broccoli, this dish is easy to make, family-friendly, and packed with fiber and vitamins. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes!

Perfect as a vegetarian main dish or a flavorful side, this pasta pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and broccoli.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in butter and reserved pasta water, letting it melt into the sauce.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to absorb into the pasta.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve warm and enjoy this light yet satisfying broccoli pasta!

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Quick & easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal effort.
Creamy & flavorful – Parmesan and butter create a light but creamy sauce.
Healthy & fiber-rich – Broccoli adds vitamins, antioxidants, and crunch.
Versatile – Serve as a main dish or a delicious side.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Use fresh or frozen broccoli – Frozen works just as well if fresh isn’t available.
For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
Make it vegan! Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast and butter for vegan butter.
For more creaminess, add ½ cup heavy cream or ricotta cheese.
Want more flavor? Add toasted pine nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or crispy breadcrumbs!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

Calories: 400
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 3g

Serving Suggestions

With a side of garlic bread for extra crunch.
Topped with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Paired with a fresh side salad for balance.
As a side dish for steak, salmon, or roasted veggies.