If you’re looking for a quick, vibrant, and absolutely delicious weeknight dinner, this 15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan) will quickly become your go-to. It’s a perfect balance of tender pasta, garlicky goodness, and the bright freshness of broccoli, all tossed with a generous shower of Parmesan that makes every bite comforting yet fresh. What’s wonderful is how effortlessly these simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels special but takes almost no time or fuss in the kitchen.

15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan) - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a vital role, whether it’s layering flavor, adding texture, or infusing color. The magic lies in the simplicity, so choosing the freshest and best-quality items will make all the difference in your 15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan).

250 g penne pasta: The perfect bite-sized tube pasta to catch the garlicky, cheesy sauce inside.
1 large head of broccoli: Cut into small florets, it adds crunch, color, and a healthy green punch to the dish.
3–4 cloves garlic, sliced: Fresh garlic is key here, delivering that rich, aromatic base for the sauce.
¼ tsp chilli flakes: Just enough heat to warm things up without overpowering the other flavors.
Olive oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for that silky, fruity flavor.
Salt + black pepper: For seasoning that enhances and balances every bite.
Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty richness that ties the dish together fantastically.
Butter: Creates a creamy finish to enrich the overall mouthfeel.
Pasta water: The secret weapon that helps marry the sauce and pasta into one glossy, delicious plate.

How to Make 15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan)

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until just al dente, which usually takes about 9-11 minutes. The salted water seasons the pasta from within, which is crucial for flavor. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid will be a key player later in the recipe.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili Flakes

While the pasta cooks, gently heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and the chilli flakes and cook slowly until you can smell that irresistible aroma, making sure the garlic doesn’t brown or burn. This step infuses the oil with bold garlic flavor and a subtle spicy kick.

Step 3: Add and Smash the Broccoli

Now add the broccoli florets directly to the pan. Gently smash them a bit with your spatula—this helps release their natural juices and allows the broccoli to soften and absorb the garlicky oil better. Give it a good stir so each floret gets coated and warmed through but still has a little bite to keep texture interesting.

Step 4: Toss Pasta with Broccoli and Sauce

Transfer the drained pasta into the pan with the broccoli, then pour in a splash of that reserved pasta water. Toss everything energetically to combine until the pasta looks glossy and well-coated with the garlicky, spicy mixture. The pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to each piece.

Step 5: Finish with Butter and Parmesan

Turn off the heat and stir in a knob of butter and a generous handful of Parmesan cheese. Swirl everything together until the butter melts and the cheese creates a creamy, rich coating. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then get ready to serve this vibrant dish straight away!

How to Serve 15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan)

Garnishes

Finishing touches take your pasta from simple to stunning. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for cheesiness and a little fresh cracked black pepper for a punch. If you want to add some color and freshness, a handful of chopped parsley or basil leaves works beautifully here.

Side Dishes

This 15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan) can stand alone as a quick meal, but if you want to turn it into a fuller feast, a crisp green salad or some toasted garlic bread on the side complements it wonderfully. The salad adds contrast while garlic bread enhances the comforting, savory vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For an informal dinner party or casual family meal, serve the pasta in warm, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant broccoli and sprinkle the parmesan right at the table so everyone can customize. You can also drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil over the top just before serving for an added glossy finish and flavor boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The broccoli will soften further, but the flavors actually deepen as it rests.

Freezing

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh because broccoli can turn mushy after freezing. While you technically can freeze it in a sealed container, you might notice some texture and flavor changes. If freezing, try to consume within one month for the best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwaving is possible but can make the broccoli softer than ideal, so stovetop reheating is recommended for that fresh-from-the-pan feel.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works perfectly for trapping sauce, you can use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Do I need to pre-cook the broccoli before adding it to the pan?

Nope! The broccoli cooks quickly in the pan when you add it with the garlic and oil, especially since you gently smash it to help soften. This keeps the broccoli tender yet retains a nice bit of crunch.

How spicy is this pasta with the chili flakes?

The ¼ teaspoon of chili flakes adds a gentle warmth that enhances the flavor without making the dish hot. You can easily adjust the amount up or down depending on your heat tolerance.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Swap the Parmesan and butter for vegan cheese and a plant-based butter alternative, and you’ll still have a tasty, satisfying dinner.

Is this dish good for meal prepping?

It does keep well for a couple of days in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.

Final Thoughts

This 15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan) is a shining example of how simple ingredients and minimal effort can produce a dish bursting with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re pressed for time or just looking for a fresh, wholesome meal, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!

15-Minute Broccoli Pasta (Garlic + Parmesan)