There’s something absolutely magical about a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate, and Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli manages to do just that every single time! Picture this: tender pasta swirled in a silky, sunset-red tomato cream sauce, dotted with bursts of bright-green broccoli and dusted with a shower of fresh herbs. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food mash-up—cozy, wholesome, and just indulgent enough to make any meal memorable. It’s a reliable weeknight hero, but also elegant enough for a dinner with friends. Each bite is satisfyingly creamy, a little tangy, and full of color, making it a dish that’s sure to be on repeat in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be surprised by how simple yet vital these ingredients are in creating a restaurant-worthy Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli. Every single one is thoughtfully chosen for the essential flavor, texture, or pop of color it brings to the table.
- Pasta (12 oz penne or fusilli): Both shapes catch plenty of sauce and broccoli, making every bite a hearty delight.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): This anchors the sauce with a fruity depth and helps sauté your aromatics to perfection.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The heart of Italian flavor—use fresh for the brightest taste.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and an irresistible savory note to the creamy tomato sauce.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Delivers that classic herbaceous lift—feel free to double up if you’re a basil lover!
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For just a hint of background warmth; adjust to taste.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 14 oz can): The backbone of the sauce, creating heft and tang.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Brings all the creaminess you crave; substitute with plant-based cream for a vegan version.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Adds a wonderfully nutty, umami-rich finish—freshly grated is best!
- Broccoli florets (2 cups, steamed or blanched): Adds vibrant color, gentle crunch, and plenty of nutrition.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for fine-tuning the flavors in every step.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish): A bright, aromatic finishing touch that makes the dish pop.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salty water to a bubbling boil. Drop in your pasta and, right before it’s done, toss in the broccoli florets. This clever timing means your broccoli will be perfectly tender-crisp and a beautiful green, while your pasta is just al dente. Drain them together to build the base for your Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add the minced garlic and onion, letting them sizzle and soften for about 3 to 4 minutes. The kitchen will smell incredible as their sweetness and depth start to build the foundation for an unforgettable pasta sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in your dried basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a gentle kick. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. This is where the transformation happens—the tomatoes thicken and their flavors mellow, making the sauce taste slow-cooked and vibrant.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Lower the heat and gracefully stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. You’ll see the sauce turn irresistibly creamy and glossy. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper so every forkful of Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli sings with flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add your drained pasta and broccoli right into the skillet. Toss everything together gently until every piece is generously coated with that luscious tomato cream sauce. Serve warm and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley—you’ve just perfected Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli
Garnishes
A final shower of fresh basil or parsley is more than just a beautiful finishing touch—it brings freshness and a pop of color that’s especially gorgeous against the creamy red sauce. If you’re feeling extra, a bit more grated Parmesan on top is always welcome.
Side Dishes
Pairing is where you can really let your creativity shine! I love serving Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette or some crackly garlic bread for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and swirl extra cream or olive oil over the top. Or, pile it onto a serving platter, mound the broccoli in the center, and scatter basil leaves for a rustic, inviting look. Mini gratin dishes also make individual servings feel special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli stores beautifully! Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld even more, making tomorrow’s lunch a real treat. Enjoy within three days for the freshest taste.
Freezing
Want to freeze it? Absolutely! Let the pasta cool completely, then freeze in a tightly sealed container. It’s best enjoyed within a month for optimal texture—just know that the sauce may separate a touch upon thawing, but a quick stir brings it back together.
Reheating
To reheat Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. The microwave works too, but lower power and more frequent stirring helps keep the sauce silky.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use your favorite plant-based Parmesan. The sauce stays luscious and creamy, and you still get all that bright, familiar flavor.
What type Main Course
Short shapes like penne or fusilli are perfect because they hold plenty of sauce and pick up those gorgeous broccoli pieces. However, feel free to use what you have on hand—farfalle or rigatoni also work like a charm.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Just keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese, stirring gently as everything comes together. This keeps the sauce creamy and lush, avoiding any separation or curdling.
Can I add extra vegetables or protein?
Definitely! While Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli is fantastic as is, sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or grilled chicken and shrimp are welcome additions that make the dish even heartier.
Is it possible to make the sauce ahead?
Yes, the sauce keeps well in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready to serve, just cook the pasta and broccoli, then reheat and toss everything together for a swift, fresh-tasting meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hunting for a pasta dish that’s as cozy to make as it is to eat, Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli is the answer you’ve been searching for. With its dreamy sauce and vibrant pops of green, it never fails to earn rave reviews. Grab your ingredients and let your kitchen fill with laughter, warmth, and the aroma of truly delicious home-cooked food—you deserve it!
