If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as satisfying as it is simple, Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Think rich tomato sauce swirled with cream, tender pasta, and bright green broccoli, all finished with a shower of Parmesan and a touch of fresh herbs. This dish is the perfect marriage of comforting flavors and feel-good veggies, making it a hearty weeknight option you’ll crave again and again—even your pickiest eaters won’t resist coming back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something magical. Each element adds its own special touch, whether it’s a pop of color, a creamy richness, or that essential bite. Here’s everything you’ll need to create Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice): The foundation for all that luscious sauce—choose shapes with nooks and crannies to catch every drop.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Brings freshness, texture, and extra nutrition with every forkful.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: The key for sautéing garlic and building layers of flavor in the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a bold aromatic kick that makes this dish sing.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle, warming heat—feel free to skip or scale up!
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes: The heart of your tomato sauce, quick-cooking and perfectly saucy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Makes the sauce irresistibly silky and rich.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings umami depth and salty complexity—don’t skip it!
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Crucial for bringing all the flavors together and accentuating the sauce’s creaminess.
- 1/2 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning: Gives the sauce that beloved Italian herby warmth.
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish: Adds color and a burst of freshness right before serving.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—don’t be shy with the salt, as it seasons both the pasta and broccoli. Drop in your pasta and cook it according to package instructions. In the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets so they become perfectly crisp-tender. You want vibrant green broccoli and pasta that’s just al dente. Drain and set them aside while you start the luscious tomato cream sauce.
Step 2: Start the Sauce Base
In a spacious skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and, if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Sauté for a minute or two until the garlic is golden and fragrant, but keep a close eye—garlic can burn quickly and you want its sweet, mellow aroma to shine.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sprinkle in the dried basil or Italian seasoning, salt, and a few generous grinds of black pepper. Give everything a good stir, then let the sauce bubble gently for 5 to 7 minutes. This short simmer brings the flavors together and thickens the sauce just enough to hug every piece of pasta and broccoli.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat—it’s time for the cream! Stir in your heavy cream or half-and-half until the sauce turns a lovely shade of pink. Let it simmer for just two more minutes, then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Now it’s looking (and smelling) irresistible.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta and broccoli directly to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, making sure every piece gets a good coating of that creamy tomato sauce. Give it another minute or two on the heat so all the flavors meld, then you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli
Garnishes
The finishing touch is where you can have a little fun—scatter freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped basil or parsley over the top. This not only adds a pop of color, but a fresh and fragrant note that lifts the whole dish. For those who love extra cheese, set out more Parmesan at the table!
Side Dishes
Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli is a satisfying main, but pairing it with a vibrant green salad or crusty garlic bread will turn this into a feast. A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the creaminess, while warm bread is perfect for swiping up every bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pasta in a large shallow bowl, swirling it into a nest and tucking in the broccoli florets for a restaurant-worthy presentation. You can also portion it into individual serving bowls and finish each with a fresh herb sprig for a personal touch. For family meals, bring the big pan to the table and let everyone help themselves—just the way comfort food should be enjoyed!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), just let them cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a wonderful option for lunch or a heat-and-eat dinner.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though the creamy sauce may separate a bit upon reheating. To freeze, cool the pasta completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating—a little extra splash of cream or milk will help revive the sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to help the sauce become creamy again. Gently warm, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway for even warmth, but the stovetop method keeps the sauce extra smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne and rotini are perfect for catching the sauce, any sturdy pasta like fusilli or rigatoni works beautifully. You can even try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a twist—though cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I make Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli vegan?
It’s easy—just swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or skip the cheese. The result is still deliciously silky and completely dairy-free.
What proteins can I add to make it more filling?
If you want to amp up the protein, toss in cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or cubes of tofu before serving. These options all pair beautifully with the creamy, tangy sauce and tender broccoli, making Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli a heartier meal.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes work well when they’re in season—a mix of diced ripe tomatoes and a tablespoon of tomato paste gives you a wonderful depth. Just let them cook down an extra 10 to 15 minutes to concentrate their flavor before adding the cream.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s entirely up to you! The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can dial up the heat or leave them out to keep the pasta mild and kid-friendly. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli, it’s bound to become one of those recipes you reach for whenever you want something easy, comforting, and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends (or just treating yourself), this is a dish that truly brings people together. Give it a go, and enjoy every creamy, veggie-packed bite!
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Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy tomato pasta with broccoli, a satisfying and flavorful dish that comes together easily for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
Broccoli:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta and add broccoli in the last 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Finish Sauce: Lower heat, add cream, then Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta and broccoli in the sauce. Heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use coconut cream or a plant-based milk and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
