Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; Salt, for boiling water; 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I discovered the perfect way to infuse veggie goodness into pasta night with this Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce. The way the pasta hugs the smooth, vibrant green sauce is simply delightful. Broccoli not only provides essential nutrients but also delivers a deliciously subtle flavor that brightens the dish. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. I truly believe this recipe is a game-changer for those looking to incorporate more greens into their dinner routine.

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-04-14T15:00:56.509Z

When I first made this Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce, I was amazed at how a simple green vegetable could transform a classic dish into something special. The secret is in the sauce, which I blend with garlic, cream, and fresh Parmesan to create a rich, silky texture. As I tossed the cooked pasta in the sauce, I could see every bow tie coated in that luscious green goodness, ready to be devoured.

What I’ve discovered is that blanching the broccoli before blending enhances its color and flavor, making the sauce not only appealing but also packed with nutrition. The added lemon zest gives it a brightness that lifts the entire dish. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite at our table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

A creamy sauce that combines the richness of pasta with the freshness of broccoli
Perfectly balanced flavors that appeal to both kids and adults
Quick to make, ensuring a delicious meal even on busy weeknights

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

To achieve the ideal al dente texture in your bow tie pasta, it’s essential to follow the cooking time specified on the package. This usually falls within the 8 to 12-minute range. For the best results, taste the pasta just a minute before the suggested time to ensure it has the perfect bite without being mushy. Remember to salt the water generously; this is your only chance to flavor the pasta itself.

Once you’ve cooked and drained the pasta, consider tossing it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. It helps maintain the pasta’s integrity as you prepare your creamy broccoli sauce. This small step ensures every piece is coated in the luscious sauce later on.

Blending the Broccoli Sauce

The key to a silky-smooth broccoli sauce is to ensure your broccoli florets are steamed just enough to retain their vibrant green color and tender texture. About 3 minutes in boiling water is perfect, but keep an eye on them; overcooking can lead to a dull color. Once drained, blending when they are still warm helps to create a creamy consistency, as the heat gently melts the Parmesan and infuses the flavors together.

When adding the ingredients to the blender, prioritize the order. Start with the broccoli at the bottom, followed by the heavy cream, garlic, and other components. This layering facilitates smoother blending. If your sauce comes out too thick, a splash of leftover pasta water can help loosen it without compromising flavor, allowing you to achieve that ideal creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious meal.

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
Salt, for boiling water

For the Creamy Broccoli Sauce

1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your pasta dish in no time.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the same pot, add broccoli florets to boiling water for about 3 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and transfer to a blender.

Make the Sauce

Add garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the blender with the broccoli. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the pasta to the pot, add the broccoli sauce, and stir well to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach desired consistency.

Serve

Dish out the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Your delicious Bow Tie Pasta With Creamy Broccoli Sauce is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce before blending.

Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to customize this creamy broccoli sauce by adding other vegetables such as spinach or peas, which not only enhance the nutrition but also add a burst of color. For a protein boost, consider incorporating grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. Simply add them to the pot after combining the pasta and sauce, allowing them to heat through seamlessly with the other ingredients.

For those who may want to make this recipe lighter, you can opt for half-and-half instead of heavy cream, which still provides a creamy texture while reducing fat content. If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, keeping in mind that these may impart their unique flavors into the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, add a splash of milk or water while reheating in a saucepan over low heat to prevent the pasta from drying out and to restore its creamy texture.

If you anticipate leftovers, consider slightly undercooking the pasta by a minute. This way, during reheating, the pasta will continue to absorb some moisture without becoming overly soft. Alternatively, you can freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat, ensuring a delightful meal that retains its quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just ensure you thaw and drain it before blending.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but you could replace the cream with a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.