Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta

Name: Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Ideas

When I first made this Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta, I was amazed at how a simple dish could be so flavorful and satisfying. The combination of roasted broccoli with al dente pasta creates a delightful harmony of textures. I love how the roasting process elevates the broccoli, bringing out its natural sweetness and creating a slight crispness. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me show you how to recreate this delightful dish!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:15:34.719Z

When I first discovered the magic of roasting vegetables, I knew I had to try it with broccoli for my pasta dish. The process not only enhances the flavor but gives the broccoli a wonderful texture that complements the pasta perfectly. I often experiment with different seasonings, and a sprinkle of garlic powder elevates this recipe to a whole new level.

Another tip I learned is to toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil before adding the roasted broccoli. This simple step ensures that every bite is infused with flavor. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy roasted broccoli brings a delightful texture to the pasta
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
A nourishing meal that's ready in just 30 minutes

Mastering the Roasting Process

Roasting broccoli is a transformative process that enhances its flavor and texture. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) ensures that the heat evenly surrounds the broccoli, allowing it to caramelize beautifully. Tossing the florets with olive oil and seasoning beforehand helps achieve an even crispness. Look for broccoli that has bright green florets and firm stalks—this will ensure the best texture after roasting. If you want to elevate the flavor further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving for a tangy brightness.

Keep an eye on the broccoli as it roasts; around the 10-minute mark, you can give it a stir to ensure even cooking. You're aiming for tender stems and slightly crispy edges. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you may need to lower your oven temperature slightly. This method not only brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli but also creates a depth of flavor that complements the pasta perfectly.

Pasta Cooking Tips

Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial for this dish—it should have a slight chew that holds up against the roasted broccoli. Bringing your water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta ensures that it cooks evenly without getting mushy. I like to set a timer for a minute or two less than the package recommends, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly after draining. Remember to reserve some of that pasta water before draining; it’s a flavorful addition for adjusting the consistency of the final dish.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily swap regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so be sure to taste and check for doneness. Pairing the pasta with the right shape—such as penne or fusilli—helps trap the roasted broccoli and any flavorful oil, enhancing each bite.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Serving this Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta is all about presentation and additional flavors. Once you’ve combined the pasta and broccoli, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few drops of balsamic vinegar can take the dish to another level. Feel free to experiment with herbs; fresh basil or oregano works wonderfully if you want to add more freshness.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating gently in a skillet over medium heat will help retain the broccoli's texture without overcooking it further. For freezing, I recommend doing so before adding any cheese or extra oils, as these components don’t thaw well. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat it as suggested.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta:

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta:

Roast the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly crispy.

Cook the Pasta

While the broccoli is roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Combine Pasta and Broccoli

In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta and roasted broccoli. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water.

Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired, then serve warm. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Now that your pasta is ready, it's time to dig in!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the pasta before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the dish beautifully.

Customizing Your Veggie Pasta

One of the best things about this Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta is how adaptable it is. Feel free to add, substitute, or omit vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Spinach or kale can create a nutritious twist; just add them to the pasta pot during the last minute of cooking. For a heartier version, consider adding cooked chickpeas or a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

If you're looking for more flavor, adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives can provide a nice punch. When mixing in these ingredients, a dash of extra seasoning or herbs can enhance the overall flavor profile. Just remember to adjust salt to taste, especially if you use salty components like olives.

Flavoring Variations

Spicing up this dish can be as simple as adding different seasonings. A variety of spices like cumin or smoked paprika can bring warmth, while fresh herbs like parsley or thyme offer a fragrant kick. Adding a sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving can brighten up the flavors and make the dish pop. If you enjoy heat, consider increasing the red pepper flakes or adding freshly sliced chili.

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese while combining the pasta and broccoli. This creates a richer sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking process slightly as these additions can influence the final consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but roasting fresh broccoli tends to give a better texture and flavor.

→ What type of pasta should I use?

Penne or fusilli works best, but you can use any pasta you prefer!

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with vegan cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.