Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces bow tie pasta; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Vital Meals Studio

I love how versatile pasta can be, and this Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce is a perfect example. The combination of perfectly cooked bow tie pasta and a rich broccoli sauce creates a delightful dish that's both comforting and nutritious. As I explored different ways to enhance the classic pasta experience, I found that using fresh ingredients like garlic and lemon not only brings out the flavors of the broccoli but also elevates the entire meal. Join me in creating this delicious dish that everyone will love!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:53:36.294Z

When I first made this Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The vibrant green of the broccoli combined with the sauce creates a visually appealing dish that tastes as good as it looks. One tip I found essential is to steam the broccoli just until tender, allowing it to retain its bright color and nutrients while enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Additionally, I discovered that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the sauce and balances the creaminess with a zesty kick. This little trick has made all the difference in how I prepare this pasta meal, and I'm sure it will become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce perfectly coats every bow tie pasta.
Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and texture.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is essential in this recipe, as they contribute significantly to the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish. Fresh broccoli, for example, not only adds a vibrant green color but also packs a punch with its vitamins and minerals. I recommend choosing broccoli florets that are firm and bright in color for the best taste.

Garlic is another key player in enhancing the sauce. When sautéed, it releases its natural oils and aroma, infusing the creamy sauce with rich flavor. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter if browned too much. Sautéing it just until fragrant will strike the perfect balance.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creaminess of the sauce is what makes this dish so comforting. When adding heavy cream, take care to keep the heat on medium; too high of a temperature may cause it to split and not blend smoothly with the cheese. Stir the mixture continuously until it reaches a glossy consistency before introducing the Parmesan, which should be freshly grated for optimal melting.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half and half for the heavy cream or use a plant-based cream alternative without sacrificing too much flavor. Just keep in mind that the sauce's texture may differ slightly, so adjust the cheese quantity to maintain a rich and creamy finish.

Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions

This Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy the dish, simply reheat the pasta and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back the creaminess if needed.

For a delightful twist, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Alternatively, tossing in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach can elevate the dish further. Serve this pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, for a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce

8 ounces bow tie pasta
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Steam the Broccoli

In the last few minutes of the pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cover and steam until just tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat well with the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Creamy Broccoli Sauce!

Pro Tips

For a healthier option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp can also elevate the dish!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce isn't thickening as expected, don't fret! This can happen if you’ve added too much cream or cheese too quickly. Try simmering the sauce for a few extra minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally. Alternatively, you can whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to help it along.

Should the pasta stick together after cooking, make sure to add a touch of olive oil immediately after draining. This simple trick not only prevents clumping but also enhances the flavor profile of the pasta with a little extra richness.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. To feed a crowd, simply double the ingredients without altering the cooking time significantly. Just ensure your pot is large enough for the increased volume of pasta and sauce to cook evenly.

For a smaller serving, halving the ingredients works beautifully as well. Just remember that any leftovers should be consumed within 3-4 days if stored in the refrigerator. Reheating over low heat on the stovetop will maintain the texture of the creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a delicious vegan alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Other great additions include bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra flavor and nutrients.