Description
Creamy, comforting, and packed with nutrients, this Salmon and Broccoli Pasta is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Tender flakes of salmon and vibrant broccoli florets are tossed with pasta in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that brings it all together in one irresistible bowl. It’s an easy, wholesome dish the whole family will love.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta:
8 oz penne, fusilli, or linguine
Salt, for boiling water
1 ½ cups broccoli florets
For the Salmon:
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
For the Cream Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ tsp ground black pepper
Juice of ½ lemon (to brighten the flavor)
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add the pasta and cook according to package directions.
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In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water.
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Drain both pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
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While pasta is cooking, season salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
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Transfer salmon to a plate, flake into chunks, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
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In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
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Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
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Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
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Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
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Fold in the flaked salmon pieces.
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Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.
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Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
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Serve hot, topped with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
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Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil for extra brightness.
Notes
Use Fresh or Frozen Salmon – Just be sure to thaw frozen fillets completely
Don’t Overcook – Both salmon and broccoli cook quickly, so keep an eye on timing
Save Some Pasta Water – If the sauce is too thick, a splash of pasta water will loosen it perfectly
Make It Lighter – Use all milk instead of cream, or sub Greek yogurt for a protein boost
Add Heat – A pinch of chili flakes adds a nice kick
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Italian