Smashed Broccoli Pasta

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Smashed Broccoli Pasta is the kind of dish that makes weeknight cooking feel just a bit more exciting. It balances comfort and health with barely any fuss. Creamy, garlicky, and full of texture, this pasta lets humble broccoli shine in the most satisfying way. The broccoli is cooked until tender, then smashed into a garlicky olive oil base and tossed with pasta, cheese, and lemon for brightness.

It comes together with pantry staples but feels restaurant-level special. Whether you’re after a quick dinner or need to clear out your produce drawer, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The magic happens in the pan, where everything melds into a cozy yet fresh bowl of goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Broccoli Pasta

This pasta is incredibly simple yet packed with flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies without it feeling forced. The broccoli becomes buttery soft and clings to the noodles, while a hit of lemon juice and zest lifts the whole dish. Best part? You can make it in one pot and have dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta shapes like orecchiette, shells, or rigatoni work especially well because they hold onto the smashed broccoli beautifully. However, you can use spaghetti or linguine too if that’s what you have on hand. The key is cooking the pasta in the same water you use for the broccoli — this adds depth and starch that makes the sauce creamy without needing cream.

Ingredients for the Smashed Broccoli Pasta

This dish is built on a few kitchen staples and fresh broccoli, making it as practical as it is tasty.

• Broccoli: The star of the show. Once boiled and smashed, it turns into a lush, textured sauce.
• Pasta: Use short pasta that traps the smashed broccoli in its curves.
• Garlic: Adds depth and warmth.
• Olive oil: Forms the rich base of the sauce.
• Lemon juice and zest: For brightness and zing.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, umami depth.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, but great for a gentle kick.
• Salt: Enhances every other flavor.

How To Make the Smashed Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cut the broccoli into florets and cook them for about 5-6 minutes until very tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, but don’t discard the water.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In the same water, cook your pasta until just al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Oil

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a wide pan. Add sliced garlic and cook on low until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Smash the Broccoli

Add the cooked broccoli to the garlic oil. Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to smash it down. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Toss the drained pasta directly into the pan. Add parmesan and more pasta water as needed to create a saucy texture. Finish with red pepper flakes and adjust seasoning with salt.

How to Serve and Store Smashed Broccoli Pasta

This dish is best served immediately while it’s hot and silky. It feeds about 4 people generously. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to revive the sauce.

What to Serve With Smashed Broccoli Pasta?

A Simple Green Salad

A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the creamy texture of the pasta.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the smashed broccoli bits.

Lemon Roasted Chicken

Add a lean protein option that complements the lemony flavor.

Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Crunchy and salty, they’re great for snacking alongside.

Creamy Corn Dip

Serve it as an appetizer to make the meal feel more festive. Creamy Corn Dip

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Slightly sweet and savory, it’s a family favorite. Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Sausage and Spinach Frittata

For a brunch twist, pair it with this frittata. Sausage and Spinach Frittata

Lemon Butter Salmon

Bright citrus flavors to match the lemony pasta. Lemon Butter Salmon

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this broccoli pasta, you might enjoy these pasta favorites next:

• Cheesy Baked Ziti when you’re craving a cheesy oven-baked dinner.
• Creamy Cajun Linguine for a bold, creamy spice.
• Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta with colorful peppers and heat.
• Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken when you want pasta and chicken in one dish.
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli for more broccoli-packed comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it anytime.

And tell me in the comments what twist you added! Did you go extra lemony or toss in some anchovies? I’m always curious how you make it yours.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next go-to comfort dish. Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Smashed Broccoli Pasta is one of those meals that feels as good as it tastes. It’s comforting without being heavy, simple but not boring. If you’re looking for a way to get more green goodness into your weeknight routine, this one’s a keeper.

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