Creamy, vibrant, and impossibly green, this Smashed Broccoli Pasta is your new go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and fresh. With tender pasta shells coated in a rich broccoli pesto sauce and finished with a touch of Parmesan, it’s a feel-good dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re trying to sneak in more veggies or just craving something cozy without the heaviness, this recipe delivers.

Smashed Broccoli Pasta isn’t just another green pasta. The broccoli is steamed until fork-tender, then blended with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan to create a creamy, naturally vibrant sauce. Every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition, and best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best?

Short, ridged pasta shapes like shells or orecchiette are perfect for this dish because they trap the creamy broccoli sauce in every crevice. If you prefer a long noodle, tagliatelle or fettuccine can also work beautifully. Whole wheat or gluten-free varieties hold up just as well!

Ingredients for the Smashed Broccoli Pasta

Broccoli Florets: The hero of the dish! Steamed until soft and smashed into a luscious sauce.
Garlic: Brings warmth and depth to the broccoli base.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and enhances the green flavor.
Olive Oil: Helps emulsify the sauce and adds richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory, umami goodness and binds the sauce.
Pasta Shells: Their shape perfectly holds the thick sauce.
Salt and Pepper: To season everything just right.
Pasta Water: A splash of this starchy liquid helps the sauce cling to the pasta like a dream.

How To Make the Smashed Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Steam the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets until they are very tender, about 7–9 minutes. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Add the steamed broccoli, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, Parmesan, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil your pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Pour the smashed broccoli sauce over the pasta and gently toss until every shell is coated. If needed, stir in reserved pasta water to help the sauce distribute evenly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with extra Parmesan shavings and a few broccoli florets for texture. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Store and Serve Smashed Broccoli Pasta

This pasta is best served warm and fresh from the pot, but leftovers store wonderfully. Keep any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen up the sauce.

For meal prep, you can make the broccoli sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just boil fresh pasta and toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.

What to Serve With Smashed Broccoli Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Grilled Chicken

Add some lean protein with herb-seasoned grilled chicken breast slices.

Lemon Herb Salmon

The citrus notes complement the broccoli and elevate the entire meal.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Cauliflower

Keep it all in the cruciferous family with a caramelized veggie side.

A Glass of White Wine

Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this green and creamy Smashed Broccoli Pasta, check out these comforting pasta delights:

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for something hearty and herby.
Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet if you’re craving cheesy comfort.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni for buttery, garlicky goodness.
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese if you want sweet and spicy vibes.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet for bold, smoky flavors.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a hint of chili flakes or a swirl of cream? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Smashed Broccoli Pasta

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Turn a humble head of broccoli into something truly crave-worthy with this Smashed Broccoli Pasta. A vibrant green sauce made from steamed broccoli, olive oil, lemon, garlic, and Parmesan hugs every pasta shell, making each bite comforting and flavorful. This easy dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and satisfying. Great for meal prep, lunchboxes, or a cozy dinner, this recipe is full of flavor and fits right in with your favorite food ideas, healthy snack plans, or plant-based dinner ideas.