Broccoli Pasta With Brown Butter

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Broccoli Pasta- Fresh broccoli and cooked pasta are tossed together in a delicious brown butter sauce with salt and pepper, then mixed with freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted for a quick weeknight dinner that is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Do you love pasta? Who doesn't, right? Pasta is a classic comfort food that almost everyone loves. There are so many different pasta dishes to choose from, and they all taste amazing. There's a pasta dish for everyone, from traditional Italian dishes like spaghetti and lasagna to more modern twists on the dish like mac and cheese. And best of all, they're all easy to make. So if you're looking for a delicious and easy dinner option, check out this delightful broccoli pasta with butter and parmesan.

This recipe for broccoli pasta is one of my favorites because it's simple to make and incorporates one of my all-time favorite vegetables, broccoli! It's the perfect mix of fresh and comforting. The butter and parmesan cheese makes it extra creamy and flavorful while not too rich. Try this broccoli pasta recipe if you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner that your whole family will love!

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Pasta Recipe:

Simple To Make- This dish is ideal for those who are just learning their way around the kitchen. The instructions are easy to follow, and the ingredients are readily available at your local supermarket.
Flavorful- With fresh seasoned broccoli, butter, and zesty parmesan, this broccoli pasta recipe is packed with delicious flavors.
Perfect For Weeknights- Broccoli pasta comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute dinner plans.
Budget-Friendly- This dish doesn't require a long list of expensive ingredients, plus you'll have leftovers to eat the next day again.
Comforting- Pasta dishes are always hearty and filling, and this broccoli pasta is no exception. It's the perfect comfort food after a long day.

Table of Contents

Equipment Needed To Make Butter And Parmesan Broccoli Pasta

Large Pot
Colander
Shallow Skillet
Stirring Spoon
Citrus Zester
Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients For Making Broccoli Pasta

Water
Salt
Pasta of Choice
Butter
Lemon Zest
Pepper
Broccoli
Parmesan Cheese

How To Make Broccoli Pasta With Butter and Parmesan

In a pot of salted boiling water, add pasta of choice and cook until al dente. A few minutes before draining the pasta add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.

Add the chosen pasta to a pot of salted boiling water and cook until al dente, usually 8–12 minutes, depending on the type. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water a few moments before draining the pasta.

In a shallow skillet, melt butter until browned. Add lemon zest and salt and pepper to taste. Add the pasta and parmesan to the butter mixture and combine until melted. Serve warm, and enjoy!

What to Serve/Pair with Fresh Broccoli Pasta

This broccoli pasta recipe is delicious on its own, or you could try pairing it with:

A Simple Green Salad
Herbed Chicken
Roasted Salmon
Sautéed Shrimp
Crunchy Garlic Bread
Grilled Vegetables

Popular Substitutions & Additions

There are so many different ways that you can change up this recipe to make it your own. Here are a few popular substitutions and additions:

Add garlic to the butter for extra flavor.
Swap out the Parmesan cheese for another type of cheese like cheddar or goat cheese.
Try using a different type of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
Add some red pepper flakes to the butter for a little bit of heat.
Stir in a cooked protein, like chicken or shrimp.
Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

How To Reheat & Store Broccoli Pasta With Parmesan And Butter

Best Way To Store Broccoli Pasta?

Leftover broccoli pasta with butter and parmesan is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How Long Will Broccoli Pasta With Butter Sauce Last In the Fridge?

If stored correctly in an airtight container, broccoli pasta will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I Freeze Broccoli Pasta?

Yes! You can freeze broccoli pasta for up to 3 months. Simply place it in an airtight container and place it in the freezer to freeze. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How Do I Reheat Broccoli Pasta With Butter And Parmesan?

Reheating broccoli pasta is easy! Simply add the leftovers to a skillet with a little bit of butter or olive oil and cook over low heat until warmed through. You can also reheat this dish in the microwave.

Broccoli Pasta FAQs

Do I use fresh or frozen broccoli for this pasta recipe?

You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli for this recipe. There is no need to thaw it before adding it to the pasta water if using frozen broccoli.

What type of pasta should I use?

Any type of pasta will work in this recipe. Try something new, switch up the shape, or stick with a classic like spaghetti or penne.

I don't have a citrus zester. What can I use instead?

If you don't have a citrus zester, you can use a regular grater to zest the lemon. Just be sure only to grate the yellow part of the peel, as the white pith is bitter.

Can I make this broccoli pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this broccoli pasta ahead of time. Simply store the broccoli pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat when ready to eat.