Shell Pasta with Garlic Broccoli Mash and Parmesan

This Shell Pasta with Garlic Broccoli Mash and Parmesan is a comforting and vibrant dish that turns humble ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying meal. The broccoli is simmered, mashed, and infused with garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil to create a hearty, rustic sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan, it’s cozy, garlicky, and totally delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish transforms simple pantry staples into something so satisfying. The broccoli mash gives the pasta a creamy, veggie-forward texture without needing any cream or butter. It’s naturally vegetarian, comes together quickly, and makes a great weeknight meal or side dish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that big head of broccoli in the fridge.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 large head of broccoli, trimmed into small pieces

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 12 ounces shell pasta

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Broccoli

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
I add the broccoli and cook it for about 5 minutes, just until tender.
I use a slotted spoon to transfer the broccoli to a bowl and reserve ½ cup of the broccoli cooking water for the mash.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli Mash

In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat.
I add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, letting them sizzle for about 30 seconds.
I stir in the cooked broccoli and the reserved broccoli water.
I season with salt and pepper, then cook everything for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the broccoli is very soft, I mash it directly in the pan with a spoon or spatula.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the broccoli simmers, I cook the shell pasta in the same pot of water used for the broccoli.
I boil until al dente, according to package instructions, and then drain well.
I reserve some of the pasta water just in case I want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Broccoli Mash

I add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the broccoli mash.
I stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss until everything is well coated.
If the sauce seems too thick, I add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to my liking.

Step 5: Season and Serve

I taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
I serve it hot, with extra Parmesan on top if I feel like it.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people as a main or 6 as a side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I stir in a handful of baby spinach or chopped basil at the end for extra greens. For protein, I add grilled chicken or white beans. If I want more richness, I mix in a spoonful of ricotta or a drizzle of cream. I’ve also used penne, orecchiette, or rotini instead of shell pasta—all work beautifully.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to bring the sauce back to life. The pasta holds its texture well and the flavor deepens even more by the next day.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I just thaw it and follow the same process—it softens even faster.

Do I need to mash the broccoli completely?

Not at all. I leave it a bit chunky if I want more texture, or mash it smooth for a creamier result.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely. I skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative and check that my pasta is egg-free.

What pasta shapes work best?

I love shells because they hold the broccoli mash in every curve, but penne, rigatoni, or orecchiette all work well too.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes. I often cook the broccoli and mash it earlier in the day, then just reheat and toss with fresh pasta at dinner time.

Conclusion

This Shell Pasta with Garlic Broccoli Mash and Parmesan is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. I love how the broccoli becomes the sauce, the garlic and red pepper add punch, and the Parmesan ties it all together. Whether I’m craving a cozy bowl of pasta or want a meatless meal that still satisfies, this one always delivers.