Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

4.8
(4)

This broccoli Alfredo pasta is so pretty made with farfalle, also called bow-tie pasta. Of course, you may use fettuccine if you prefer. As a main dish, this serves 2; as a side, it serves 4. Add a salad, if you wish, and some bread. We love it as a side with grilled chicken or shrimp.

overhead view of green plate with bow-tie pasta with broccoli on bright checked tablecloth
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
2

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces farfalle pasta

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (see Note)

  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg, or to taste

  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • fresh parsley sprigs for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta at a boil, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Remove to a colander; reserve the pasta water for later use.

  2. Add broccoli to a microwave-safe container along with 1/4 cup water. Cover and cook on High until bright green and tender with a bite, about 4 minutes. Drain; season with salt. Keep warm.

  3. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet or saucepan over low heat. Stir in cream and allow to simmer, stirring often, 3 to 4 minutes.

  4. Add cheese and garlic, stirring continuously, until cheese is melted. Stir in nutmeg and remove from heat. sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

  5. To serve, combine cooked pasta, cooked broccoli, and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs, if desired.

    Cook’s Note

    4 minutes is plenty of time for bright green broccoli with a tender bite. If you prefer more tender broccoli, cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes.

    Freshly-grated Parmesan works best in this recipe. Purchased grated Parmesan often has an anti-caking ingredient that may prevent a smooth sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

608 Calories
45g Fat
36g Carbs
20g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 2
Calories 608
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 45g 57%
Saturated Fat 27g 134%
Cholesterol 130mg 43%
Sodium 906mg 39%
Total Carbohydrate 36g 13%
Dietary Fiber 6g 22%
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 20g 39%
Vitamin C 102mg 113%
Calcium 431mg 33%
Iron 2mg 11%
Potassium 614mg 13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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