20-Minute Broccoli Garlic Fettuccine Alfredo: A Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Introduction
Craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish but short on time? This 20-minute broccoli garlic fettuccine alfredo recipe is your answer! Packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. We'll focus on speed and simplicity without sacrificing taste, using readily available ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish. Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe your family!) with this quick and easy recipe.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This ensures perfectly cooked, yet still slightly crisp, broccoli.
Step 2: Create the Alfredo Sauce
- While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them well, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and speedy 20-minute broccoli garlic fettuccine Alfredo!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be a fantastic addition.
- Make it vegetarian: Leave out the meat and add some sauteed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before adding the pasta and broccoli.
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