Name: Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: For the Sauce and Vegetables: 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved; 3 large garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium head broccoli, florets cut small (large stem removed); 2 tablespoons water; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 7.5 oz full-fat coconut milk (see note below); Black pepper, for serving; For the Pasta: 8 oz pasta (your choice, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)

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Oh, you’re in for a treat with this one! Creamy, dreamy pasta swirled with a luscious tomato sauce, and a burst of fresh, crisp broccoli. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and indulgent without being overly heavy. Trust me when I say this recipe is a game-changer. You’ll want to make it again and again, whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli

This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, impress friends at a gathering, or treat yourself to a comforting bowl of goodness, this dish has your back. Here’s why it’s bound to become a favorite:

Versatile: It’s a one-pot wonder that can easily be adapted to suit your cravings. Add chicken for extra protein or switch up the vegetables—spinach, peas, or even mushrooms—this recipe is as flexible as your imagination.
Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to empty your wallet for a delicious meal. With pantry staples like pasta, canned tomatoes, and a bit of cream, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by complicated recipes, this one is for you. The steps are simple and straightforward, so even beginner cooks will feel like pros by the time they’re serving it.
Customizable: Want more heat? Add red pepper flakes. Love garlic? Sauté some with the broccoli. This is your dish, so make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or a crowd, this creamy pasta will win everyone over. It’s one of those meals that gets “oohs” and “aahs” from both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this creamy pasta—simple ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Let’s take a look:

Pasta: The base of the dish! You can go with your favorite type of pasta—penne, spaghetti, or fusilli all work wonderfully. It soaks up the creamy sauce in the best way.
Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes are perfect for this sauce. They’re rich, tangy, and form the perfect base for the creamy goodness to come.
Cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. You can use heavy cream for extra richness or half-and-half for a lighter option.
Broccoli: The unsung hero of this dish! It adds a pop of color, a crunch, and a healthy touch to balance out the creamy sauce.
Garlic: Because no creamy pasta dish is complete without garlic. It infuses the sauce with a lovely aroma and flavor that makes everything better.
Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top finishes this dish off with a savory, nutty bite that elevates the whole experience.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy masterpiece:

Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli:

In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, just enough to soften it without losing that crispness.

Make the Sauce:

Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Then, pour in the cream, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit of pasta water to get the perfect consistency.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

Add your cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat every noodle in that creamy, dreamy tomato sauce. Stir in a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finishing Touches:

Once everything is well combined, remove the pan from heat. Garnish with more parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or parsley, if you like.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve it up warm and enjoy! Whether it’s just you or a whole group of friends, this dish will be a hit.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli

This creamy pasta is so satisfying, it can easily stand alone as a meal. But here are a few serving ideas to make your meal even better:

Fresh Salads: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta. The fresh, crisp flavors are the perfect contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with a warm slice of garlic bread to soak up the creamy tomato sauce—trust me, it’s a combo you won’t want to miss!
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or even bell peppers will add color, texture, and extra nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, the pasta is all you need! Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra special touch.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, prep the broccoli and garlic ahead of time. You can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Make It Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Dietary Adjustments: If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Storage Tips: Leftovers? No problem! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra cream or pasta water to bring it back to life.
Double the Recipe: This dish freezes beautifully! Make a big batch and freeze some for later. Just reheat and enjoy whenever you’re craving comfort food.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the cream with something lighter?

A1: Yes! You can use half-and-half or even milk for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind that the texture will be a little less rich.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A2: Yes, this pasta can be made ahead of time. Store the sauce and pasta separately, and just reheat together when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or pasta water and warm it up on the stove.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: Absolutely! Freeze the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

A5: Reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Q6: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

A6: Yes, fresh broccoli works beautifully in this recipe! Just make sure to cook it until it’s tender but still has a nice crunch.

Q7: How can I make the sauce thicker?

A7: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce. You can also add a little bit of grated parmesan for extra creaminess.

Q8: Can I add meat to this recipe?

A8: Yes! Grilled chicken, sausage, or even bacon would make excellent additions to this dish.

Q9: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A9: Of course! Any pasta shape will work. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti will soak up that creamy sauce perfectly.

Q10: Can I add more vegetables?

A10: Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or peas would be a delicious addition to this dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s quick, delicious, and easily adaptable to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this dish is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen, and let the creamy goodness begin!