If you’re yearning for a cozy, decadent dinner that comes together in a flash, Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli is about to become your new weeknight hero. This dish pairs tender penne and broccoli florets with a luxurious Parmesan cheese sauce – and the beauty is, it all cooks together in the Instant Pot for ultimate ease. With pops of color, punchy garlic, and a silky, cheesy finish, this pasta is proof that comfort food can also be fresh, vibrant, and simple to prepare. Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli is destined to win over even the pickiest eaters, and it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli is quick and easy, yet every element plays a crucial role in flavor and texture. When combined, these simple staples transform into a creamy, dreamy meal that’s both nourishing and utterly crave-worthy.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and herbs for maximum flavor right from the start.
Minced garlic: Nothing beats the bold, aromatic punch of freshly minced garlic in this dish.
Dried oregano: Lends a warm, herbaceous note that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
Garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor for extra depth without overpowering the sauce.
Broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color, vitamins, and a pleasant texture that balances the creamy sauce.
Penne pasta: Holds the sauce perfectly; you can use rigatoni or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.
Vegetable broth: Infuses the pasta and broccoli with savory flavor instead of plain water.
Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy sauce that coats every bite.
Kosher salt & pepper: Season generously for a perfectly balanced dish—don’t skip the fresh cracked pepper!
Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts seamlessly into the sauce for that signature cheesy appeal.
Fresh chopped parsley: A sprinkle on top provides a pop of freshness and color.
Extra shredded Parmesan cheese: For serving, because you can never have too much cheese.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but adds a gentle, warming kick for those who love a hint of spice.

How to Make Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and pour in the olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers, then add your minced garlic, dried oregano, garlic powder, plus a couple pinches of salt and fresh cracked pepper. Stir constantly for about a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible—just be sure not to let the garlic brown!

Step 2: Deglaze and Add Broccoli

If you notice any browned bits sticking to the bottom of the pot, just splash in a little vegetable broth and give it a gentle scrape with a wooden spoon. This step not only brings all those savory flavors into the sauce but also prevents any possible burn warning from the Instant Pot. Toss in your bite-size broccoli florets and give everything a good mix.

Step 3: Add Pasta, Broth, and Cream

Next, scatter your dry penne pasta evenly over the broccoli. Pour in the rest of the vegetable broth and all of the heavy cream, making sure the liquid just covers the pasta. Sprinkle in another helping of salt and pepper to layer in more flavor. Give it one last stir, making sure everything is mostly submerged in the liquid before sealing the pot.

Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Secure your Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 4 minutes. Remember, it will take a few minutes to come to pressure first, but once the timer starts, dinner will be ready in no time. This short cook time is key to keeping both your pasta and broccoli perfectly tender.

Step 5: Quick Release and Rest

After the 4 minutes are up, carefully use the quick-release vent and gently press on it with a wooden spoon to let out the steam safely. Remove the lid once the pressure subsides and give your pasta a nice stir. Then, let it sit uncovered for about 3 minutes, which helps everything thicken up beautifully.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Finish

Sprinkle in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely into the sauce. Give your Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli a final taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if you like. And that’s it—dinner is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli

Garnishes

A sprinkling of fresh parsley and a generous handful of shredded Parmesan cheese on top brings a burst of color and flavor. If you love a bit of heat, a few pinches of red pepper flakes are a fantastic finishing touch that makes this dish really pop.

Side Dishes

Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli is delightful on its own, but serving it with warm, crusty bread is pure bliss—perfect for soaking up any extra sauce! For a lighter touch, try pairing it with a zesty green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a platter of roasted cherry tomatoes for juicy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful and serve individual portions in wide bowls, twirling the pasta for a restaurant-style touch. For family dinners, pile everything onto a large serving platter and shower it with extra parsley and Parmesan. To impress guests, try topping each bowl with a few roasted broccoli florets and an artful drizzle of olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli, let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—you’ll love how the flavors intensify overnight!

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but the creamy sauce may change texture slightly after reheating. For best results, place cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the luscious texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and finish with a fresh shower of Parmesan and parsley before serving for that just-cooked magic.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is classic for Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or any short pasta you love. Just keep in mind you may need to adjust the cooking time for different shapes.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut or cashew cream, and use vegan Parmesan-style cheese. The result is still creamy and delicious, perfect for any dietary preference.

Can I make Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli ahead of time?

You sure can. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or batch cooking. Just store in airtight containers and follow the reheating tips above for best results.

What if I want more protein in the dish?

Feel free to stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or a can of drained white beans at the end. You’ll boost the protein content and transform Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli into a hearty main course.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Always add freshly shredded Parmesan cheese in batches, stirring well after each addition. Make sure the pasta isn’t piping hot, but still warm enough to melt the cheese smoothly into the sauce.

Final Thoughts

You’re all set to bring a big bowl of creamy, garlicky goodness to your table with this Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to impress—whether you’re feeding family or just need a little comfort at the end of a busy day. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how deliciously easy homemade pasta night can be!

Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 24 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli is a quick and delicious pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful broccoli come together in one pot for easy cleanup and fantastic flavor.

Instructions

Turn on the Instant Pot: Set it to the sauté function and add olive oil.
Sauté Aromatics: Cook minced garlic, oregano, and garlic powder with salt and pepper for a minute, stirring frequently.
Add Broccoli: Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth if needed. Add broccoli.
Combine Ingredients: Add pasta, remaining broth, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook Pasta: Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
Release Pressure: Use quick-release vent and let sit for 3 minutes.
Finish Dish: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season to taste and serve garnished with parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.

Notes

You can customize this dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or your favorite vegetables.
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: Italian