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    MJ & Hungryman » Baby/Kid-Friendly Recipes

    Creamy Broccoli Pasta (One Pot Meal)

    By Min On May 20, 2022, Updated August 17, 2022

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

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    Jump to Recipe
    A close up shot of scooped broccoli pasta.

    In need of an easy weeknight dinner? 15 minutes is all it takes to make this healthy one pot creamy broccoli pasta. It may even help your toddler to love their broccoli. That's a big promise, but you will never know until you try!

    Pasta served three ways for an adult, toddler, and baby.
    Jump to:
    • Easy Broccoli Pasta
    • Ingredients
    • Step-by-Step Instructions
    • Tips for Success
    • Storage Suggestions
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Serving Suggestions
    • More Creamy pastas to try
    • Creamy Broccoli Pasta

    Easy Broccoli Pasta

    Pasta in a large pot.

    Why this recipe is going to become one of your go-to weeknight meals!

    • Made with simple, healthy ingredients that you probably have on hand right now!
    • Takes only 15 minutes to make from start to finish
    • Only need to dirty ONE pan! As someone who HATES doing dishes, I am all in!
    • If your child is learning to enjoy their broccoli, this pasta dish may help nudge them in the right direction.
    • Budget-friendly!

    And if you are looking for another EASY and creamy pasta dish, you have to try this lemon ricotta pasta with spinach as well!

    30+ EASY Dinner Ideas for the whole family

    Ingredients

    All the ingredients laid out on a white background.
    • Pasta - Small shapes, like elbow or orecchiette pasta will work best.
    • Broccoli - can use fresh or frozen broccoli.
    • Milk - I like to use whole fat milk because that's what I always have on hand, but you can also use half-and-half or heavy cream to make the dish richer.
    • Broth - I like to use chicken broth but feel free to use whatever you wish.
    • Cheese - Use good quality cheese so that its flavor can really shine through in this simple dish. My personal favorite is Cabot (which tastes SO good in this one pot homemade hamburger helper).
    • Yogurt - Greek style works best as it’s nice and thick and also imparts a tangy flavor to the dish.

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    A four image collage showing step by step.
    • Melt butter over medium heat in a dutch oven or large pot. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds to a minute. Add oregano, broth, and milk. Bring to a boil.
    • Add pasta. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 8-10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan. add chopped broccoli during the last 5 minutes of pasta being done.
    • Turn off the heat and Stir in yogurt, cheese, and lemon juice.

    Tips for Success

    • For perfectly cooked broccoli - Add during the last 5 minutes. If serving to your baby or you want it to be very soft, then add it along with the pasta.
    • Use good quality cheese and grate it yourself. It will melt better leaving you with ooey gooey yumminess in each bite.
    • Don't overcook your pasta - refer to package directions for the cooking time.
    • Be sure to occasionally stir and scrape the bottom of the pot (especially towards the beginning) to prevent the pasta from sticking.

    Storage Suggestions

    A close up shot of scooped broccoli pasta.

    It is best served immediately but if you have any leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan on freezing, don't add the stir-ins.

    Cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I use frozen broccoli?

    Absolutely! Simply thaw in the fridge and cook along with the pasta.
    Note that it will cook faster than fresh broccoli so you’ll need to adjust when to add it depending on your texture preference.

    What is the best pasta to use?

    Small shapes, like elbow or orecchiette pasta, work best. You can use gluten-free pasta or legume-based pasta for a boost of protein, iron, and fiber. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time appropriately.

    How can I make this broccoli pasta recipe dairy-free?

    You can use any plant-based milk or Greek style yogurt. Non-dairy cheese and nutritional yeast are great substitutes for the cheddar cheese.

    What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

    The pasta won't be as creamy but will still be good! You can microwave or reheat on the stove with an additional splash of broth or milk to help loosen the pasta.

    Serving Suggestions

    While this broccoli pasta dish can stand on its own, you can certainly add more protein to boost nutrition.

    Some suggestions include:

    • Chicken
    • Beans
    • Tofu
    • Shrimp

    You can also stir in whatever vegetables you have on hand! Frozen peas and spinach work really well.

    For babies

    pasta served in a bowl with big broccoli floret and shredded chicken.

    Small shaped pasta is hard for young babies (6-8 month olds) to pick up, so if making this dish to enjoy with your baby, then I suggest using a larger shaped pasta, like penne.

    Adjust the broccoli size depending on their age as well!

    How to cook and serve broccoli to baby

    For toddlers

    A toddler plate with pasta served deconstructed along with quartered cherry tomatoes.

    If your child doesn't like broccoli or gets squirmy about foods touching each other, then you can separate the broccoli from the pasta as you see here. You can also cut the broccoli into smaller pieces to make it easier to eat.

    Is your toddler becoming picky?

    Arm yourself with these strategies that will transform your mealtimes!
    YES, PLEASE!

    More Creamy pastas to try

    • 20 Minute Vegan Creamy Mushroom Pasta
    • Vegan Creamy Tomato Pasta
    • Creamy Sweet Potato Sauce
    • Creamy Macaroni Carbonara

    Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!

    A close up shot of scooped broccoli pasta.

    Creamy Broccoli Pasta

    In need of an easy weeknight dinner? 15 minutes is all it takes to make this healthy one pot creamy broccoli pasta
    5 from 20 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 6 minutes
    Total Time: 11 minutes
    Servings: 4
    Author: Min | MJ and Hungryman

    Ingredients

    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced (or 2-3 teaspoons garlic powder)
    • 2 cups low sodium broth of choice
    • 1 cup full fat milk, see note
    • 1 teaspoon oregano
    • 3 cups broccoli florets
    • 8 ounces pasta, small or medium shaped

    Stir ins

    • ½ cup Greek yogurt
    • ½ cup shredded cheddar, can add more
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • (optional: lemon zest, grated parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes)

    Instructions

    • Melt butter over medium heat in a dutch oven or large pot. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds to a minute. Add oregano, broth, and milk. Bring to a boil.
    • Add pasta. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 8-10 minutes, or until pasta is done. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan. add broccoli during the last 5 minutes.
    • Turn off the heat and Stir in yogurt, cheese, and lemon juice.

    Notes

    • For perfectly cooked broccoli - Add during the last 5 minutes. If serving to your baby or you want it to be very soft, then add it along with the pasta.
    • Don't overcook your pasta - refer to package directions for the cooking time.
    • Be sure to occasionally stir and scrape the bottom of the pot.
    • Storage: Transfer to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan on freezing, don't add the stir-ins. Cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 415kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 14g | Sodium: 231mg | Fiber: 4g | Calcium: 263mg | Iron: 2mg
    Course Dinner
    Cuisine American
    Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Tag me @KidFriendly.Meals today!

    More Baby/Kid-Friendly Recipes

    • Fluffy Vegetable Rice
    • How to Freeze Yogurt
    • Creamy Chicken Orzo
    • Custard Yogurt Toast (Sweet and Savory)

    Share or Save It for Later!

    Share: [addtoany]

    About Min

    Thank you so much for stopping by! I am Min, a Registered Dietitian, a Christ follower, a wife, and a mom to our two miracle babies! Currently, I’m having a ton of fun feeding their tummies and sharing our baby led weaning journey! Follow me on Instagram if interested in seeing daily menu as well as tips and tricks.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Erica says

      January 17, 2023 at 10:42 am

      5 stars
      Another winning recipe! The creamy broccoli pasta was a hit with everyone, adults and kids alike. Just getting out of the haze of a newborn with a toddler and am so happy to have easy recipes that I can feel good about feeding my family.

      Reply
      • Min says

        January 18, 2023 at 4:12 pm

        Oh those newborn days are so so hard. I still hear phantom cries but what everyone says is true - it does get easier! Hang in there mama. And I promise to continue sharing EASY, wholesome recipes!

        Reply
    2. Jenny says

      January 12, 2023 at 8:29 pm

      5 stars
      This is such a great recipe! I made this for my 11 month old. I frequently struggle to find something quick and nutritious to make him for dinner between the end of my busy work day and his bedtime. This recipe has everything I look for 🙂 It was simple enough to squeeze into the limited time I have for cooking mid-week and hearty enough to be enjoyed by all.

      Reply
      • Min says

        January 12, 2023 at 9:08 pm

        Dinner is oftentimes the hardest for me too! I will continue sharing more easy and hearty weeknight meals like this one!

        Reply
    3. Esther says

      November 24, 2022 at 10:24 pm

      5 stars
      Yummy and low effort (definitely liked the protein addition of chicken). Will be adding to my regular meal rotation!

      Reply
      • Min says

        November 26, 2022 at 8:36 pm

        So happy to hear!

        Reply
    4. Rachel says

      October 25, 2022 at 1:50 pm

      My son would love this! Any suggestions on how to make it dairy free?

      Reply
      • Min says

        October 25, 2022 at 1:55 pm

        Hi! Refer to the FAQ section hope it's helpful!!

        Reply
    5. Christa says

      September 19, 2022 at 12:46 pm

      5 stars
      One of my toddler’s favorite meals! I added some mushrooms and sweet onions to the milk + broth and it ended up creating a super umami-filled sauce 🤤 thank you for this recipe!

      Reply
      • Min says

        September 19, 2022 at 3:42 pm

        Ooh love the additions!!

        Reply
    6. Lindsey says

      August 16, 2022 at 6:07 pm

      5 stars
      The entire family loved this recipe and it was so easy to make!

      Reply
      • Min says

        August 17, 2022 at 11:53 am

        Love love hearing this! Thanks for sharing!

        Reply
    7. Jodie Zhi says

      July 03, 2022 at 12:27 am

      If no yogurt handy can I leave this out or have something to substitute?

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 03, 2022 at 3:40 pm

        It adds a lovely creaminess but you can leave it out and add more shredded cheese or cream cheese if you have it

        Reply
      • Yuki says

        December 09, 2022 at 2:11 pm

        Can I use water instead of broth?

        Reply
        • Min says

          December 10, 2022 at 6:34 am

          You can but won't be as flavorful

          Reply
    8. Jodie says

      June 25, 2022 at 4:46 am

      Me and my baby loves this!

      Reply
    9. Valerie Birkey says

      June 23, 2022 at 8:18 am

      5 stars
      Delicious! Will make again!

      Reply
      • Min says

        June 23, 2022 at 6:29 pm

        Yay!!

        Reply
    10. Jessica says

      June 17, 2022 at 4:14 pm

      5 stars
      Sooo good! My husband told me to make sure I save this recipe. I also had some leftover homemade pesto in the fridge, so I added a spoonful on top of each serving and that was delicious as well!

      Reply
      • Min says

        June 18, 2022 at 8:55 pm

        Yay! Ooh I love the addition of pesto!

        Reply
    11. Arica says

      June 05, 2022 at 12:33 pm

      5 stars
      Easy and more nutritious than box mac & cheese.

      Reply
      • Min says

        June 05, 2022 at 7:38 pm

        Yes!

        Reply

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    I am MJ, a registered dietitian and a mom of 2. I truly hope you’ll enjoy all the recipes and tips that I share on what and how to feed your child!

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