Roasted Broccoli Garlic Pasta

Name: Roasted Broccoli Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta (e.g., penne or spaghetti); 2 cups broccoli florets; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Roasted Broccoli Garlic Pasta recipe because it perfectly melds the nutty flavors of roasted broccoli with the richness of garlic. Every time I make it, the aroma fills my kitchen, making it an instant hit at family dinners. The simplicity of the dish allows the broccoli to shine, and I adore how tossing everything together creates a creamy texture without needing heavy sauces. Whether it's a weeknight meal or something special, this pasta never disappoints!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:40:12.906Z

When I first tried roasted broccoli in a pasta dish, I was amazed at how the roasting process enhances its flavor and texture. I remember serving this to friends, and their delight was infectious. By roasting the broccoli until crisp-tender and adding it to garlic-infused pasta, I created a dish that's satisfying and healthy.

For this pasta, I recommend cooking the broccoli until it has a lovely golden-brown exterior; it really makes all the difference. The garlic adds a punch, and tossing everything with a bit of olive oil brings harmony to the dish. Trust me, you’ll enjoy every bite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty, caramelized flavor from roasted broccoli
Robust garlic aroma that elevates every bite
Quick, easy preparation suitable for any night of the week

      

The Magic of Roasting Broccoli

Roasting broccoli at high temperatures caramelizes its natural sugars, enhancing its flavor profile. At 425°F (220°C), you want to keep an eye on your broccoli, as it should turn tender with crispy tips after about 20 minutes. If you notice it browning too quickly, consider reducing the oven temperature slightly. A well-roasted broccoli will have a delightful nutty flavor and a vibrant green hue, signaling it's ready to add complexity to your pasta dish.

Importance lies not just in timing but in the preparation method as well. For the best results, ensure broccoli florets are evenly sized for uniform cooking. If you’re short on time, you can parboil them for a couple of minutes before roasting, which reduces overall roasting time and helps them stay vibrant in color. And don’t be afraid to let those edges get a bit crispy; they’ll give your pasta the texture you crave.

Perfecting Garlic Oil

When making the garlic oil, controlling the heat is essential for preventing bitterness. I recommend cooking the minced garlic over medium heat, stirring regularly, until it becomes fragrant and golden, which should take about 1-2 minutes. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, lower the heat to avoid burning, which can turn the flavor harsh. I also love to add a dash of red pepper flakes at this stage for a pleasant kick, but feel free to adjust the spice level based on your preference.

Once your garlic is sautéed to perfection, the oil should shimmer but not smoke. When combined with the pasta and broccoli, this garlicky essence infuses each bite, creating a mouthwatering experience. Just be sure to scrape up any browned bits at the bottom of the skillet while tossing; they contribute to the overall flavor of the dish. This finish can elevate your pasta from tasty to truly exceptional.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This roasted broccoli garlic pasta makes great leftovers! You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta, which can become sticky after sitting. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and result in a somewhat mushy texture.

For serving, I recommend a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, along with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for richness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the dish, adding layers of flavor. Feel free to customize with additional ingredients such as cherry tomatoes or cooked chicken, making this recipe versatile for any palate or occasion.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Roasted Broccoli Garlic Pasta

1 pound pasta (e.g., penne or spaghetti)
2 cups broccoli florets
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients come together for a delightful dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious!

Instructions

Preheat and Roast Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly browned.

Cook Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare Garlic Oil

In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta and roasted broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This dish is best enjoyed immediately while it's hot and flavorful!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or cherry tomatoes just before serving. You can also substitute sautéed spinach or kale for the broccoli for a different spin.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe emphasizes broccoli, other vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts can be excellent substitutes. Just ensure to adjust the roasting time based on the vegetable’s density; for example, Brussels sprouts may require an additional 5-10 minutes. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a nutty, cheesy flavor that complements the pasta well.

If you're gluten-sensitive, consider using gluten-free pasta alternatives like chickpea or quinoa pasta. These varieties have different cooking times, so keep your eye on the package instructions to ensure optimal texture. Substituting whole grain pasta can also add a nutty flavor and enhance fiber content, making it a healthy twist on this classic dish.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up or down is straightforward—just maintain the ratios between the pasta and the other ingredients. For a crowd, doubling the recipe is easy, but keep in mind that you may need to roast the broccoli in batches to prevent overcrowding on the baking sheet. Since the oven's heat needs circulation, allow some space between florets for even roasting.

When adjusting the recipe for fewer servings, I’ve found that halving it often still yields satisfying portions, especially when accompanied by a light salad or bread. This also allows for easier meal prep during busy weeks while still enjoying a delicious, nourishing dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to experiment with cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or even asparagus for variety.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

You can easily substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta available in most stores.