Broccoli Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe
This Broccoli Pasta Recipe is a delightful and wholesome dish featuring tender broccoli florets cooked in a flavorful sauce with sautéed onions, garlic, and a kick of red pepper flakes. Combined with al dente fusilli pasta and topped with crispy golden breadcrumbs and shredded parmesan, this recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and rich flavors, all prepared in about 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 12 ounces broccoli florets
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 1 pound fusilli (or other chunky pasta)
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Dairy & Toppings
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded parmesan
Instructions
- Boil Water and Prepare Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5 minutes until tender but still bright green.
- Sauté Onions: While the water is boiling, heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they become lightly browned and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and ground black pepper, stirring to evenly combine the flavors.
- Combine Broccoli with Sauce: Using a slotted spoon or sieve, transfer the cooked broccoli from the boiling water into the pot with onions and spices. Do not drain the pasta water. Scoop 1 cup of the pasta water and add it to the broccoli sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low to keep warm.
- Cook Pasta: Add the fusilli to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the broccoli sauce simmer gently while the pasta cooks, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld.
- Toast Breadcrumbs: In a small frying pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the broccoli sauce. Add half of the shredded parmesan and half of the toasted breadcrumbs. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with the remaining parmesan and toasted breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the broccoli; it should remain tender-crisp for the best texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce and help it adhere better to the pasta.
- Use chunky pasta shapes like fusilli or penne to hold the flavorful broccoli sauce well.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- To make this dish vegetarian, ensure your parmesan is suitable or substitute with a vegetarian cheese alternative.
