As the aroma of garlic sizzles in the air and my kitchen fills with the vibrant scent of fresh lemon, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. One of my go-to weeknight meals is this Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta—a dish that truly celebrates simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With just about 30 minutes of prep time, it seamlessly marries the richness of a creamy sauce with the refreshing zing of lemon and the crunch of bright broccoli. This recipe is easily customizable, allowing you to add proteins like chicken or shrimp for an extra touch, or swap in your favorite veggies for a personal twist. It’s the kind of comfort food that pleases both the picky eaters and the adventurous souls at your table. Are you ready to whip up this blissful bowl of pasta? Let’s dive in! Why is this pasta recipe a must-try? Simplicity at Its Finest: The steps are easy to follow, making it a breeze to whip up, even on the busiest nights. Bursting with Flavor: The harmony of zesty lemon and creamy sauce creates a delightful taste explosion in every bite. Customizable Goodness: Want to add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp? Feel free to personalize it! You can also mix in your favorite veggies for a nutritious twist. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for both family dinners and gatherings, it satisfies even the fussiest eaters without breaking a sweat. Time-Saving Delight: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this recipe is your go-to solution for a quick yet indulgent meal. Make sure to explore more ideas in our Serving Suggestions and find out how to store your leftovers effectively! Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Penne pasta – This is the base of the dish; feel free to swap it with any pasta shape you love. For the Sauce • Fresh broccoli florets – Adds vibrant color and freshness; substitute with spinach or asparagus if desired. • Heavy cream – Creates a rich, silky sauce; for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or almond milk instead. • Lemon zest and juice – Provides a tangy brightness to balance the creaminess; always opt for fresh lemons for the best flavor. • Garlic (minced) – Infuses delicious aroma and depth; fresh garlic reigns supreme over jarred varieties. • Grated Parmesan cheese – This adds a salty, nutty flavor; for a vegan option, nutritional yeast works well. • Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences. • Red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of spice and warmth; adjust based on your heat preference. • Olive oil – Used for sautéing garlic; butter can be substituted for a richer flavor. Experience the joy of preparing this Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta that blends comfort and flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. As the pasta cooks, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the rest. Set the drained pasta aside while you prepare the sauce, eager to see how the creamy lemon sauce will envelop it. Step 2: Sauté the Garlic In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot and shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to avoid burning. The kitchen will start to fill with the lovely aroma of garlic as you prepare for the creamy goodness to come. Step 3: Create the Creamy Base Slowly pour in the heavy cream along with half of the reserved pasta water, stirring gently to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes; it will start thickening slightly. Keep an eye on it, as you want it creamy but not boiling over, ensuring that the flavors blend beautifully. Step 4: Add the Broccoli Stir in the fresh broccoli florets, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli turns tender yet vibrant green. The steam will help the broccoli soften while infusing the sauce with its bright flavor, adding a nutritious crunch to your creamy lemon broccoli pasta. Step 5: Season the Sauce Once the broccoli is tender, uncover the skillet and stir in the lemon zest and juice, along with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. This step brightens the entire dish, perfectly balancing the creaminess with a zesty kick that makes the creamy lemon broccoli pasta irresistible. Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce Add the reserved cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well-coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, you can mix in more of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The pasta will absorb some of that delightful flavor, making every bite a comforting experience. Step 7: Finish with Parmesan Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently toss again until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich and cheesy coating. This final touch enhances the creamy lemon broccoli pasta, giving it an extra layer of flavor. Now it’s time to serve this comforting dish hot, delighting your family with its vibrant colors and tantalizing taste. Expert Tips for Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente according to package instructions. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its delightful texture. Aromatic Garlic: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned. Burned garlic can impart a bitter taste, ruining your creamy lemon broccoli pasta. Starchy Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve that pasta water! It’s perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and enhancing the creamy texture. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same vibrant zing. Season in Layers: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. This ensures every bite of your creamy lemon broccoli pasta is flavorful and well-balanced. Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta Variations Feel the freedom to transform this dish into your own culinary masterpiece with these delightful twists! Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty, satisfying boost that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Veggie Lovers: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, peas, or spinach to incorporate vibrant colors and additional nutrients into your plate. Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill for a fragrant uplift that brings a garden-fresh taste to every bite. Whole Wheat Goodness: Swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to your dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. Creamy Vegan Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free yet rich experience. Zesty Heat: Kick up the spice with sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for those who crave a little extra warmth in their meals. Nutty Twist: Stir in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch that adds texture to your creamy dish. Lemon Lovers: Amplify the lemon flavor with additional zest or a splash of lemon-infused olive oil for an extra zing that will brighten your dish! Feel free to explore and adapt these options to your liking, and don’t forget to check out our Serving Suggestions for perfect pairings to elevate your meal! What to Serve with Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta The perfect side dishes can elevate your creamy treat into a memorable meal, inviting every flavor in your mouth to dance together. Garlic Bread: Crisp and warm, it’s perfect for scooping up that creamy sauce while adding a rich, buttery flavor. Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette complements the rich pasta and cleanses the palate. Grilled Chicken: Juicy and seasoned, adding protein enhances the dish, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Sauteed Asparagus: Tender and slightly crunchy, asparagus brings a seasonal touch and enhances the vibrant colors of your pasta. Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade amplifies the zesty notes of the pasta, creating a refreshing pairing that’s perfect for any occasion. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich and airy treat offers a decadent conclusion to your delightful creamy pasta experience, balancing tartness with sweetness. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze creamy lemon broccoli pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly with plastic wrap before sealing. Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess while warming it through. Serving Tips: Mix in a little extra grated Parmesan cheese after reheating for added creaminess and flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish at your leisure! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta bowls are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on those bustling weeknights! You can prepare the pasta and broccoli components up to 24 hours in advance. Cook the penne pasta and blanch the broccoli, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and broccoli in a skillet with the original sauce, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious results that are just as satisfying and fresh! Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best broccoli for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for fresh broccoli florets that are bright green and firm. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots all over, as these indicate they may be past their prime. Fresh broccoli not only tastes better but also offers more nutrients and a satisfying crunch for your creamy lemon broccoli pasta. How can I store leftover creamy lemon broccoli pasta? To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to maintain that luscious creamy texture. Can I freeze creamy lemon broccoli pasta? Of course! To freeze your creamy lemon broccoli pasta, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before sealing to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if needed to restore creaminess. What if my sauce is too thick? Don’t worry! If you find your cream sauce is too thick, the magic ingredient is that starchy pasta water you reserved! Simply add a little at a time while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. It will help to loosen the sauce without compromising flavor, ensuring your creamy lemon broccoli pasta remains delightful and saucy. Are there any dietary considerations for this dish? Absolutely! This creamy lemon broccoli pasta is quite versatile. For gluten-free options, substitute penne with gluten-free pasta of your choice. If you need a dairy-free or vegan version, use a plant-based cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This way, you can enjoy a comforting dish that fits your dietary needs. Can I add other proteins or veggies to the dish? Very! Feel free to customize your creamy lemon broccoli pasta by adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a protein boost. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and flavor variety. The more the merrier! Indulgent Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta for Quick Comfort This Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines a rich sauce with vibrant broccoli and zesty lemon. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces penne pasta Feel free to swap with any pasta shape you love.For the Sauce2 cups fresh broccoli florets Substitute with spinach or asparagus if desired.1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or almond milk.1 tablespoon lemon zest Always opt for fresh lemons for the best flavor.2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best taste.2 cloves garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is preferred.1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast works well for a vegan option.1 teaspoon salt Adjust to your taste preferences.1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to your taste preferences.1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust based on your heat preference.2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with butter for richer flavor. Equipment Large Potskillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.Slowly pour in the heavy cream along with half of the reserved pasta water, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and cover the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli turns tender and bright green.Uncover and stir in the lemon zest and juice, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.Add the reserved cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well-coated in the creamy sauce.Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently toss again until the cheese melts into the sauce. Serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth as needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
