Quick and Easy One-Pot Broccoli and Peas Pasta Ready in 20 Minutes

Jamie Civitano
Dec 23, 2025
3 min read

Busy evenings call for meals that are fast, flavorful, and fuss-free. This one-pot pasta recipe with broccoli and peas fits the bill perfectly. It transforms simple frozen vegetables and pantry staples into a comforting dish in just 20 minutes. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, which means less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.

Eye-level view of a steaming pot of broccoli and peas pasta with Parmesan cheese on top — One-pot broccoli and peas pasta ready to serve

Why One-Pot Pasta Works So Well

One-pot meals have become a favorite for busy home cooks because they simplify cooking and cleanup. This recipe uses dry pasta cooked directly in a garlicky, broth-based sauce. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the flavors of garlic, olive oil, and chicken broth, creating a rich and savory base without needing extra steps.

Frozen broccoli and peas are convenient and nutritious additions. They add vibrant color, texture, and vitamins without requiring chopping or prep work. Using frozen vegetables also means you can keep these staples on hand for quick meals anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
1 bag frozen broccoli florets
1 small bag frozen peas
2 cups chicken broth
8 ounces dry pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells work well)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh Parmesan cheese, for serving

These ingredients are easy to find and often already stocked in most kitchens. The garlic and red pepper flakes build a flavorful base, while the chicken broth adds depth and moisture for cooking the pasta.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. This step releases the garlic’s flavor into the oil, which will infuse the entire dish.
Add the vegetables and broth
Stir in the frozen broccoli and peas. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This softens the vegetables slightly and warms the broth.

Cook the pasta
Add the dry pasta directly to the pot. Pour in enough boiling water to cover the pasta completely. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the pasta soak up the flavorful liquid. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 to 12 minutes depending on the type of pasta.
Finish and serve
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the pot from heat. Stir in a generous amount of fresh Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding creaminess and a salty bite. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Pasta Every Time

Choose the right pasta shape: Smaller shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells work best because they cook evenly and hold the sauce well.
Keep stirring: Stirring occasionally prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom and helps it absorb the broth evenly.
Adjust liquid as needed: If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a splash of boiling water to keep it moist.
Use good quality broth: The broth is a key flavor component, so choose a low-sodium or homemade chicken broth for the best taste.
Add extra veggies or protein: Feel free to toss in other frozen vegetables or cooked chicken pieces for a heartier meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Weeknight Winner

This one-pot pasta recipe is a lifesaver when time is tight. It requires minimal prep, uses ingredients you likely already have, and cooks quickly. The frozen broccoli and peas add nutrition without extra chopping or washing. Cooking the pasta in the broth means no draining or extra pots.

The result is a comforting, flavorful dish with a creamy Parmesan finish that feels like a treat but comes together effortlessly. It’s perfect for busy parents, students, or anyone who wants a satisfying meal without the hassle.