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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced shallots and diced onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir to coat them in the seasonings.
- 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
- Pour in the remaining broth, non-dairy milk, and non-dairy cream.
- Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the vegan parmesan and vegan cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
- 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
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle fresh thyme and additional vegan parmesan on top.
- 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!