Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 ounces mini shells (or any small shaped pasta)
• 1 head broccoli (cut into small florets)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the pasta.: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

2. 2

   Sauté the onion and garlic.: In a large skillet add the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted add the onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.

3. 3

   Sauté the broccoli.: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, along with the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the broccoli softens.

4. 4

   Finish the dish.: Add the heavy cream and ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Bring to a boil then simmer for another 5 minutes until sauce thickens. Add the Parmesan cheese and cooked shells. Toss everything together. Cook for another minute.

5. 5

   Garnish and serve.: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and serve.