Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells: A Comforting and Dairy-Free Pasta Dish

Imagine twirling a forkful of perfectly cooked pasta shells coated in a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce, all complemented by tender broccoli florets. That’s exactly what you get with Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells—a plant-based twist on a classic comfort food that’s every bit as indulgent as the dairy-heavy versions.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a dish to impress your non-vegan friends. It’s packed with flavor, creamy without any dairy, and incredibly easy to make.

Let’s dive into this delicious recipe step by step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Completely Dairy-Free & Vegan – No animal products, just creamy plant-based goodness.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes!
✔ Loaded with Flavor – Garlic, shallots, smoked paprika, and fresh thyme bring depth to the dish.
✔ Nutritious & Comforting – Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells dish.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Oil	2 tbsp
Shallots (sliced)	2
Yellow onion (diced)	1 medium
Garlic (diced)	2 cloves
Garlic powder	½ tsp
Onion powder	½ tsp
Smoked paprika	1 tsp
Fresh thyme (chopped)	1 tbsp
Salt & pepper	To taste
Broccoli florets	4 cups
Dry pasta shells	¾ lb
Vegan broth (chicken-style preferred)	2 cups
Unsweetened non-dairy milk	1 cup
Non-dairy cream (Ripple or similar)	1 cup
Vegan parmesan	½ cup
Vegan cream cheese	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced shallots and diced onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

1. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir to coat them in the seasonings.
2. Pour in 1 cup of the vegetable broth, cover, and let simmer for 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in the remaining broth, non-dairy milk, and non-dairy cream.
2. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the vegan parmesan and vegan cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
4. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss everything together.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle fresh thyme and additional vegan parmesan on top.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells!

Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Pasta

1. How to Make It Extra Creamy

• Use full-fat non-dairy milk (such as cashew or oat milk) for a richer texture.
• Add a spoonful of nutritional yeast for extra cheesiness.

2. Best Pasta Choices

• Medium Shells – Hold the sauce well.
• Rotini or Penne – Great alternatives if you don’t have shells.

3. How to Prevent Mushy Broccoli

• Cook the broccoli separately and stir it in at the end for a firmer texture.

4. Perfect Side Dishes to Pair With This Dish

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad – A fresh and crunchy contrast.
• Roasted Veggies – Brussels sprouts or asparagus make great additions.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	6g
Fat	12g

Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

FAQs About Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or non-dairy milk to keep it creamy.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. If freezing, let it cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

4. What’s the best non-dairy milk to use?

• Cashew Milk – Extra creamy and mild.
• Oat Milk – Slightly sweet but works well.
• Almond Milk – Lighter but still good.

5. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Try adding:

• Chickpeas or White Beans – Adds plant-based protein.
• Tofu or Tempeh – Pan-fry and mix in.

6. How can I make it spicier?

Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of sriracha to the sauce.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells!

This Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. It’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavors, proving that plant-based meals can be just as indulgent as traditional creamy pasta dishes.

Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy every delicious, creamy bite.

Want More Delicious Vegan Recipes?

Stay tuned for more plant-based delights, and don’t forget to save this recipe for later!

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