Broccoli Parmesan Fettuccine
A creamy and savory fettuccine dish featuring tender broccoli florets, smoky Canadian bacon, and a rich Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion, it balances fresh vegetables with indulgent cheese and hearty bacon flavors that appeal to both family and guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli in boiling water with a cover for about 3 minutes; drain and plunge into ice water. Drain and set aside.
- Cook fettuccine according to package directions; drain and place in a large bowl.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add Canadian bacon and cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in whipping cream and cook until heated through.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and salt, stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine the broccoli and sauce with the cooked fettuccine, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the whipping cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. If you don’t have Canadian bacon, diced ham works well, or try crispy pancetta for a different flavor. To enhance the dish, add minced garlic while sautéing the bacon. Make sure to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Parmesan Fettuccine pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the pasta to become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Parmesan Fettuccine contains roughly 383 calories, with 19g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 844mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the Canadian bacon and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also enhance the flavor with herbs like basil or oregano, making it a delightful Italian-inspired meal.
What can I use instead of fettuccine?
If you don't have fettuccine, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the package instructions for the best results.
How can I make this dish creamy without using too much cream?
To achieve creaminess without excess cream, consider blending cooked cauliflower into the sauce for added creaminess and nutrition. You can also use a bit of reserved pasta water to help create a silky texture while keeping the dish lighter.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).