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

Enjoy a comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s 100% plant-based! This Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells recipe features tender pasta shells in a velvety dairy-free sauce, combined with fresh broccoli and flavorful spices. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a wholesome meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Pasta
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Vegan
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 shallots sliced
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic diced
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 3/4 lb dry pasta shells
  • 2 cups vegan broth chicken-style or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk almond, soy, or oat milk
  • 1 cup non-dairy cream Ripple, coconut cream, or cashew cream
  • 1/2 cup vegan parmesan
  • 2 tbsp vegan cream cheese

Method
 

Prepare the Aromatics:
  1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add shallots and onion, sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in diced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Spices and Broccoli:
  1. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir well to coat the aromatics with seasoning.
  3. Add fresh thyme and broccoli florets, mixing everything together.
Cook the Pasta and Broth:
  1. Pour in the vegan broth and bring to a simmer.
  2. Add pasta shells, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid.
  3. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
  1. Reduce heat to low and stir in non-dairy milk and cream.
  2. Add vegan parmesan and vegan cream cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
  3. Let the sauce thicken for 3-5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Serve and Enjoy:
  1. Remove from heat and let pasta sit for a couple of minutes to absorb flavors.
  2. Garnish with extra vegan parmesan and fresh thyme before serving.
  3. Enjoy warm and creamy!

Notes

  • Cook pasta in broth instead of water for extra flavor.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by adding more broth or non-dairy milk as needed.
  • Add nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy taste.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
  • Customize with roasted vegetables, red pepper flakes, or plant-based protein