Creamy Broccoli White Bean Alfredo Vegan for Cozy Nights

A warm bowl of pasta drizzled with a creamy sauce and loaded with fresh broccoli is the perfect antidote to a chilly evening. This recipe for a creamy broccoli white bean Alfredo is quick, taking only about 30 minutes to prepare, and it’s a favorite because it offers the richness of traditional Alfredo without the dairy.

This dish is ideal for anyone looking for a hearty vegan meal, whether you’re vegan or simply exploring plant-based options. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or any weeknight dinner, and it stores well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy texture comes from blended beans instead of dairy.
• It’s quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes.
• Packed with nutrients from broccoli and beans.
• The hint of nutritional yeast adds a delightful cheesy flavor.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a delicious dinner:

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces dried pasta, penne or fusilli recommended

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast, adds cheesy flavor
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk, your favorite type
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, or fresh garlic if preferred

For the Veggies

• 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

For Sautéing

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for sautéing

Use any unsweetened plant milk you prefer.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Cannellini beans for any white bean
• Nutritional yeast can be omitted for a lighter flavor
• Fresh broccoli can be substituted with frozen
• Olive oil can be replaced with vegetable broth for sautéing

How to Make It

Let’s get cooking with these simple steps.

Boil

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté

2. Sauté the broccoli by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
   
   

Blend

3. Blend the cooked cannellini beans, nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, and garlic powder in a blender until smooth.

Combine

4. Combine the pasta, sautéed broccoli, and blended sauce in the large pan, stirring well to heat through and coat evenly.

Serve

5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra nutritional yeast or fresh herbs if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: store for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the creaminess may change drastically.
Reheat: gently in a pan over low heat for 5-10 minutes, adding a splash of water or milk if needed.

Tips for Best Results

• Sauté broccoli just until bright green for optimal texture.
• Blend the sauce until completely smooth for a luxurious finish.
• Adjust the garlic powder based on your taste preference.
• Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
• Enjoy this dish as a filling lunch option the next day.