Pasta House Pasta Con Broccoli (Actual Recipe)

The clatter of silverware on plates, the murmur of happy conversations, and the unmistakable aroma of garlic and cream—these are the sensory memories that flood back whenever I think of Pasta House’s Pasta Con Broccoli. As a child, visiting St. Louis was synonymous with indulging in this iconic dish. The creamy sauce, clinging to perfectly cooked pasta shells, punctuated by tender broccoli and earthy mushrooms, was pure comfort food elevated to an art form. It was more than just a meal; it was a taste of home, even when I was miles away.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 ounces uncooked large shell pasta
• 1 cup cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup chopped broccoli
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced fresh button mushroom
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Colander
• Stirring spoon

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is only half-done. This should take approximately 4 minutes. The pasta should still be quite firm.
2. Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander, making sure to remove as much water as possible.
3. Return the partially cooked pasta to the now-empty pot.
4. Add the cream, butter, minced garlic, tomato sauce, chopped broccoli, salt, and pepper to the pot with the pasta.
5. Bring the mixture to a hard boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
6. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the noodles are fully cooked and the sauce has begun to thicken to your desired consistency. This should take another 5-7 minutes.
7. Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is appropriately thickened, add the thinly sliced fresh button mushrooms. Stir to combine the mushrooms evenly throughout the dish.
8. Remove the pot from the heat.
9. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed and melted into the sauce.
10. Toss the pasta to thoroughly coat each shell with the creamy, cheesy sauce.
11. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the pasta initially: Cooking the pasta only halfway through in the first step is crucial. This allows it to finish cooking in the sauce, absorbing the flavors and resulting in a perfectly creamy texture.
• Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out. Conversely, if it’s too thin, continue cooking it over low heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Garlic burn prevention: Be careful not to burn the garlic. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the entire dish. Keep the heat at medium, and stir frequently.
• Mushroom preparation: To clean the mushrooms, gently wipe them with a damp paper towel instead of rinsing them under water. This prevents them from becoming waterlogged and diluting the sauce.
• Cheese Selection: While the recipe calls for parmesan cheese, you can experiment with other hard, salty cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Pasta House Pasta Con Broccoli is best served immediately, piping hot, to enjoy its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. It makes a wonderful main course or a satisfying side dish. As per the original St. Louis tradition, pair it with a fresh, crisp Pasta House Salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent it from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	731 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	53g	81%
Saturated Fat	32.7g	163%
Cholesterol	174.2mg	58%
Sodium	423.4mg	17%
Total Carbohydrate	49.5g	16%
Dietary Fiber	2.8g	11%
Sugars	3g	N/A
Protein	16.2g	32%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free shell pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version. Use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese substitute.
• Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor. Sauté them lightly before adding them to the sauce.
• Protein Addition: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Herb Enhancement: Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or oregano for added freshness and aroma.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: While fresh broccoli is preferable for its texture and flavor, frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the sauce.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best to serve this dish immediately, as the sauce can thicken and the pasta can become mushy if left to sit for too long. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, slightly undercook the pasta and add a little extra cream to the sauce.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: While large shell pasta is traditional for this dish, you can experiment with other shapes such as penne, rotini, or farfalle. Choose a pasta shape with ridges or crevices that will hold the sauce well.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
A: To prevent the sauce from separating, avoid boiling it too vigorously and be sure to stir it frequently. If the sauce does separate, try whisking in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) to help it re-emulsify.

Q: Is there a vegetarian alternative to Parmesan cheese?
A: Yes, you can use a vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese. Many brands offer vegetarian hard cheeses that mimic the flavor and texture of traditional Parmesan.

Final Thoughts

Pasta House Pasta Con Broccoli is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory, a taste of home, and a celebration of simple, flavorful ingredients. This recipe captures the essence of that iconic dish, bringing the creamy, comforting flavors of St. Louis to your own kitchen. I encourage you to try it, experiment with variations, and share your own memories and feedback. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Enjoy!