Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love this Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce! The combination of the pasta's fun shape and the rich, velvety sauce makes for a delightful meal. We often whip this up as a comforting weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option on busy days. The addition of garlic and parmesan elevates the dish, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, I feel good knowing I’m sneaking in those lovely green veggies! Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll find it becomes a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:09:36.652Z

When I first discovered this recipe, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it was. The creamy broccoli sauce comes together quickly, and I love using fresh broccoli for the best results. Blanching the broccoli before blending not only enhances the color but also ensures a smooth, rich sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. I’ve fit this dish into our weekly meals and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

A tip I learned along the way is to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining the pasta. Adding it to the creamy sauce helps to adjust the consistency and makes everything cling together perfectly. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for achieving that restaurant-quality texture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy broccoli sauce that's packed with flavor and nutrients
Fun bow tie pasta adds a playful touch to your meal
Easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option

The Importance of Blanching Broccoli

Blanching the broccoli is a crucial step in achieving a vibrant green color and preserving its nutrients. This process involves briefly boiling the florets in saltwater, which enhances their flavor while also tenderizing them slightly. Aim for about 2 minutes of boiling before quickly transferring the broccoli to an ice bath. This method not only stops the cooking process but also ensures your broccoli maintains that appealing crunch when served with the pasta.

It’s important to monitor the timing of the blanching closely. Overcooking the broccoli can result in a dull color and mushy texture, making it less enjoyable in the final dish. For a perfect balance between flavor and crunch, immerse the florets in ice water as soon as you take them off the stove. This technique preserves their essential vitamins, which can be lost through overcooking.

Diving into the Sauce

The creamy broccoli sauce is not just a flavorful coating for your pasta; it’s also a fantastic way to sneak in vegetables without the fuss. By blending the broccoli with heavy cream and parmesan, you achieve a luxuriously smooth texture that clings to the bow tie pasta beautifully. If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half or a plant-based milk, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

Garlic is a key player in this sauce, adding depth and aroma. Make sure to mince the garlic finely to avoid any harsh, raw bites in your creamy sauce. To amplify the garlic flavor, you can sauté it in olive oil before blending. This technique caramelizes the garlic, providing a sweeter, more aromatic base for your sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce:

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Make sure to have everything ready before starting to cook.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the same pot, add a small amount of water and bring to a boil. Blanch broccoli florets for about 2 minutes until bright green. Remove and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking.

Make the Sauce

In a blender, combine blanched broccoli, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth. You may add salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In the pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the blended sauce and the cooked pasta, mixing until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.

Enjoy your meal! Perfect for any occasion.

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with a blend of Greek yogurt and vegetable broth.

Serving Suggestions

This bow tie pasta with creamy broccoli sauce can be elevated with additional garnishes. I love topping mine with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch and an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also add brightness, complementing the richness of the sauce seamlessly. Serve it alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal.

For a more substantial dish, consider tossing in some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein. Simply sauté them separately and mix in just before serving. This not only enhances the meal but also introduces heartiness that can satisfy even the hungriest appetites.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be conveniently prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. You can cook the pasta al dente and prepare the broccoli sauce, storing each in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply heat the sauce in a saucepan while reheating the pasta on the stovetop or microwave.

If you want to extend the longevity of this recipe, consider freezing the broccoli sauce. It can be kept in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat. If the sauce thickens upon reheating, just stir in a little extra cream or reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but fresh broccoli will give a better flavor and texture.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk as a lighter alternative.

→ How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when ready to serve.