Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Shells
This easy 30-minute pasta recipe features tender broccoli and shell pasta tossed in a rich, creamy parmesan Alfredo sauce. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces medium pasta shells
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra parmesan for sprinkling
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook according to package instructions (usually 9–11 minutes). About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add broccoli florets to the same pot. Cook until pasta is al dente and broccoli is bright green and just tender.
- Drain pasta and broccoli together in a colander. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set pasta and broccoli aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not let it brown).
- Pour in heavy cream and whole milk. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer (2–3 minutes).
- Lower the heat and gradually whisk in parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth (2–3 minutes). If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Add more reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Off the heat, sprinkle in chopped parsley. Divide between bowls and top with extra parmesan and more black pepper if desired.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta shells. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for extra protein. Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce. If sauce thickens, add a splash of pasta water or milk when reheating. Serve immediately for best texture. You can swap veggies or use plant-based cream and cheese for vegan adaptation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 cups per serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 680
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 56
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 18
Keywords: broccoli alfredo, creamy pasta, parmesan shells, easy dinner, vegetarian pasta, weeknight meal, comfort food, 30 minute recipe