Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Smashed Broccoli Pasta, a creamy dish that seamlessly blends fresh broccoli and pasta for a comforting meal you’ll adore!

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or preferred pasta

1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)

2 large heads broccoli (about 500 g)

chopped into florets

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic

minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

½ cup (120 ml) vegetable broth or reserved pasta water

½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or plant-based cream

⅓ cup (35 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Extra Parmesan cheese

Toasted pine nuts or walnuts

Fresh basil or parsley leaves

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Pour in the vegetable broth or reserved pasta water and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
Use a fork or a potato masher to smash the broccoli into a chunky sauce consistency. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined. Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest if using.
Toss the cooked spaghetti in the broccoli sauce until well coated. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs.

Notes

For a lighter version, use plant-based cream and adjust the cheese to taste. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 30
Category: Dessert
Method: baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/4–1/6 of recipe)
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 210 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 6 g
Protein: 12 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg

Keywords: Smashed Broccoli Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Broccoli Sauce, Comfort Food, Vegetarian Pasta