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Crispy Broccoli Creamy Pasta

This dish features roasted broccoli with crispy, charred edges paired with a rich, velvety cheese sauce coating sturdy pasta. The contrast between smoky, crunchy florets and smooth, cheesy sauce creates a satisfying texture and flavor balance, making it a comforting yet elevated weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head broccoli cut into florets
  • 8 oz pasta rigatoni or orecchiette preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided, for roasting and finishing
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice
  • salt salt for boiling water and seasoning
  • pepper black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, spreading them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the edges are deep golden and crispy, with a smoky aroma filling your kitchen.
  2. While the broccoli roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain, reserving about half a cup of pasta water for later.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until you smell a nutty aroma and see the garlic turn slightly golden.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky. If it gets too thick, loosen with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  5. Add the roasted broccoli to the skillet, gently folding it into the creamy sauce. Then, add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well coated. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Cook for another minute over low heat to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, sprinkled with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of richness.