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Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 620
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb short pasta (penne, orecchiette, or shells)
  • 1 medium head broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package, adding broccoli for the last 2 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In the same pot over medium-low heat, warm olive oil and cook sliced garlic until fragrant and golden at the edges, about 1 minute. Return pasta and broccoli and toss to coat.
  3. Off the heat, add Parmesan and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously for about 2 minutes until glossy and creamy, adding more water if dry.
  4. Pile into bowls, top with more Parmesan and black pepper, and serve immediately.

Notes

Freshly grated Parmesan melts far more smoothly than pre-shredded. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so if you’re reheating leftovers, add a splash of water to bring it back to life.