Name: Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons oil; 2 shallots, sliced in rounds; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, diced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 3/4 pound dry pasta shells; 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups vegan chicken broth; 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk; 1 cup vegan cream (such as Ripple); 1/2 cup vegan parmesan; 2 tablespoons vegan cream cheese

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Introduction

This creamy vegan broccoli and shells dish is a comforting, dairy-free pasta meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with tender broccoli, savory spices, and a rich, plant-based sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave something hearty and delicious.

A large white pot filled with a creamy pasta dish sits on a white marbled texture surface. The dish has three main layers: the base layer is light yellow pasta shells mixed with bright green broccoli florets, the middle layer includes golden brown crispy fried onions scattered on top, and the top layer is garnished with small green thyme leaves. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, slightly mixing the ingredients. Nearby, a small white bowl of ground pepper and some fresh thyme sprigs add detail to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons oil
2 shallots, sliced in rounds
1 yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, diced
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
4 cups broccoli florets
3/4 pound dry pasta shells
2 cups broth (vegan chicken broth recommended)
1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
1 cup non-dairy cream (such as Ripple)
1/2 cup vegan parmesan
2 tablespoons vegan cream cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the sliced shallots. Cook, turning frequently, until they are crispy. Remove the shallots from the skillet and set aside, keeping the remaining oil in the pan.
Step 2: Add the reserved oil to a large stock pot and heat over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh thyme. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Step 4: Pour in the dry pasta shells, broccoli florets, broth, and non-dairy milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, cooking until the pasta has absorbed most of the liquid—about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the non-dairy cream, vegan parmesan, and vegan cream cheese. Continue cooking and stirring frequently until the pasta is fully tender, approximately 5 more minutes.
Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta hot, topped with the crispy shallots for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, add a splash of nutritional yeast or a tablespoon of miso paste when stirring in the cream cheese and parmesan alternatives.
You can swap broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach depending on your preference.
If you prefer gluten-free pasta, use your favorite gluten-free shells and adjust cooking time accordingly.
To make this dish spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and garlic.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of non-dairy milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy pasta dish in a white pot, with three main layers visible. The base layer has small shell-shaped pasta with a smooth, pale yellow cheese sauce coating them. Mixed in are bright green broccoli florets, adding color and texture. On top, there are thin, crispy fried shallots scattered throughout, giving a brown, crunchy contrast. Small fresh green herb sprigs are placed on top for a touch of freshness. A wooden spoon is resting on the side of the pot, which sits on a cloth with light stripes, all against a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, the recipe already includes diced fresh garlic for flavor. The garlic powder enhances the savory depth, but it can be omitted or reduced if you prefer to rely only on fresh garlic.

What non-dairy creams work best for this recipe?

Any unsweetened non-dairy cream works well, but Ripple or cashew-based creams tend to provide a nice creamy texture and flavor. Coconut cream is another option but may add a subtle coconut taste.