It’s a no-brainer, but one of my favorite quick meals. Pasta + broccoli + butter and Parmesan is my go-to. I found out this week that adding a sprinkle of Ranch seasoning mix on top takes it to a whole new level! Ranch Broccoli Pasta is easy to prepare and full of creamy, tangy ranch flavor.
What kind of RANCH seasoning to use
You can also use ranch seasoning packets from the store if you like. This recipe uses 1.5 Tbsp or about half of a package of store-bought ranch seasoning. You can always add more ranch seasoning to your taste.
Use any Pasta
This quick-fix meal is also great because you can use any pasta shape. This is an excellent way to use leftover pasta from your pantry, especially if you are like me and don’t cook a pound at a time.
What else can I add?
This recipe can be adapted in a variety of ways. You can also add some additional ingredients to this simple meal.
Grilled chicken diced
Bacon
Grated Parmesan
Grape tomatoes (sliced in half)
Ingredients
8 oz. Pasta (any shape) ($0.50).
1/2 lb. frozen broccoli florets ($0.72)
2 Tbsp Butter ($0.20).
1.5 Tbsp Ranch Seasoning ($0.27)
Salt to taste or 1/8 teaspoon (or as desired)
1/8 tsp freshly cracked pepper ($0.01)
Instructions
Bring a large pot full of water to a boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and continue to cook until the pasta becomes tender (7-10 minutes).
Add the frozen broccoli florets into the boiling pasta water when the pasta is almost done. Let it sit in the boiling water for about a minute. Retain 1/4 cup of starchy water and drain pasta and broccoli into a colander.
Turn off the burner and add the pasta and broccoli to the pot. Stir in the ranch seasoning, butter, and ranch sauce until everything is covered with the seasoning. Add a splash of pasta water if the pasta gets dry when stirring.
Season the pasta to your taste with salt and pepper. Serve the pasta warm.
