🍽️

Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables

A clever one-pot pasta dish where vegetables are blended into a silky cream sauce, making them invisible to picky eaters while adding nutrition and flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Total Time
28min
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy

Time Breakdown

Prep:10min
Cook:18min

Ingredients (6 servings)

  • 12 ouncespenne pasta
  • 2 cupscauliflower florets
    fresh or frozen
  • 1 mediumyellow squash
    diced
  • 2 mediumcarrots
    diced
  • 1/2 mediumyellow onion
    diced
  • 3 clovesgarlic cloves
    minced
  • 2 cupsvegetable broth
  • 1 cupheavy cream
  • 1/2 cupgrated Parmesan cheese
    plus extra for serving
  • 2 tablespoonsolive oil
  • 1 teaspoonItalian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoonsalt
  • 1/4 teaspoonblack pepper
  • 1/4 cupfresh basil
    chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and yellow squash. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.

    5min
  2. 2

    Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 2 minutes.

    3min
  3. 3

    Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

    3min
  4. 4

    Cook according to pasta package directions (usually 10-12 minutes), stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

    11min
  5. 5

    Using an immersion blender, carefully blend about half the vegetables in the pot to create a chunky, creamy sauce. Alternatively, remove 1 cup of vegetables, blend in a regular blender, and return to pot.

    2min
  6. 6

    Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2 minutes until cheese melts and sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning.

    2min
  7. 7

    Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

    2min

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about making Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables

How long does it take to make Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables?

This Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables recipe takes approximately 28 minutes total, with 10 minutes of prep time and 18 minutes of cooking time.

How many servings does this Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables recipe make?

This recipe serves 6 people. You can easily scale the ingredients up or down to serve more or fewer people.

Is this Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables recipe beginner-friendly?

Yes! This Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables recipe is rated as easy and perfect for beginners. The instructions are straightforward and don't require advanced cooking techniques.

What makes this Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables authentic italian?

This Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables recipe uses traditional italian ingredients and cooking methods to deliver authentic flavors that represent the essence of italian cuisine.

Can I make Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables ahead of time?

Yes, Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables can be prepared ahead of time. You can prep ingredients in advance or make the full recipe and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

How should I store leftover Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables?

Store leftover Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables recipe?

Yes, many ingredients in Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables can be substituted based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Common substitutions work well, but may slightly alter the final taste and texture.

What should I serve with Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables?

Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite grain for a complete and balanced meal.

What kitchen equipment do I need to make Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables?

To make Creamy Pasta with Hidden Vegetables, you'll need basic kitchen equipment like mixing bowls, measuring cups, and standard cookware. No special equipment is required unless specified in the recipe instructions.

More Italian Recipes

Discover more delicious recipes perfect for your meal planning

🍽️
Easy

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini

A comforting one-pot pasta dish with cheese tortellini swimming in a creamy tomato sauce loaded with vegetables. This family favorite is ready in 20 minutes and requires just one pot for easy cleanup.

23min
5
Italian
🍽️
Easy

Pesto Pasta

Indulge in flavorful pasta, fresh basil, and garlic paired with aromatic italian seasonings. The combination of pasta, fresh basil, and garlic creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The perfect addition to your regular dinner rotation.

25min
4
Italian
🍽️
Easy

Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Indulge in authentic large portobello mushroom caps, fresh mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes paired with aromatic italian seasonings. Simple techniques yield impressive results that look and taste restaurant-quality. A go-to recipe you'll return to time and again for its reliability.

35min
4
Italian
🍽️
Easy

Pasta Primavera

Celebrate italian cuisine with this savory dish showcasing penne pasta, broccoli florets, and bell peppers. Penne pasta becomes delightfully crispy and incredibly flavorful. Make extra - everyone will want seconds of this delicious dish.

35min
4
Italian
🍽️
Easy

Cacio e Pepe

Indulge in crispy spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper paired with aromatic italian seasonings. The aromatic blend of spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper fills your kitchen with enticing scents. Make extra - everyone will want seconds of this delicious dish.

20min
4
Italian
🍽️
Easy

Italian Meatballs

Experience delicate italian flavors with eggs, spinach, and zucchini prepared to perfection. Each bite delivers crowd-pleasing appeal with perfectly balanced seasonings. This delicate dish becomes a family favorite after just one bite.

30min
6
Italian