Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl

Name: Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed; 1/4 cup nutritional yeast; 1 cup almond milk or any plant-based milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Meals | Warm Dinners

I absolutely love making this Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl, especially when I'm craving something creamy and satisfying. The combination of tofu and broccoli not only makes it incredibly nutritious but also gives it a delightful texture that I can't resist. The homemade Alfredo sauce is the star of the dish, marrying rich flavors with a hint of garlic that really elevates the meal. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up this bowl of goodness that is perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner at home.

Created by

Kyle

Last updated on 2026-02-23T15:19:18.894Z

When I first experimented with this Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl, I fell in love with how the flavors meld together. I wanted something easy yet indulgent, so I decided to blend tofu into the sauce for added creaminess and protein. The sauce thickens beautifully and coats the broccoli and noodles just perfectly. It’s a satisfying dish that never leaves me feeling heavy.

One quick tip I learned while making this dish is to steam the broccoli just until it’s vibrant green and slightly tender. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, which won't provide the bite I love. Pairing the fresh broccoli with the velvety sauce is what truly makes this meal heavenly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that’s surprisingly healthy
Nutritious tofu provides extra protein and texture
Quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights

Key Techniques for Creamy Alfredo

The success of the Alfredo sauce lies in blending the ingredients to achieve a silky texture. Start by ensuring your tofu is well-drained; excess water can make the sauce too thin. For best results, press the tofu before blending. This can be done by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a weight on top for about 15-30 minutes. This step will concentrate the flavors and yield a richer sauce.

When blending the sauce, use a high-speed blender to ensure a smooth consistency. If your blender struggles, you can add a little more almond milk or reserved pasta water gradually while blending. Ideally, you want the sauce to be creamy enough to coat the back of a spoon but not too thick. If it becomes too thick, simply adjust with more liquid and blend again.

Ingredient Insights

Nutritional yeast is a key ingredient in this Alfredo sauce, not just for its cheesy flavor but also for its nutritional benefits. It’s packed with B vitamins and adds a depth of umami, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. If you’re looking to switch it up, consider using a vegan Parmesan cheese as a substitute, although it may alter the flavor slightly.

Choosing the right pasta can also improve your dish. Fettuccine offers a wide surface area for the sauce to cling to, but feel free to use whole grain or gluten-free options if preferred. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different types of pasta may require varying boiling times—always refer to the package instructions for best results.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl is vibrant and appealing when served immediately, but it also stores well for meal prep. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, store the pasta, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming mushy. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of almond milk if needed to revive the creaminess.

To elevate your bowl, consider garnishing with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added crunch and spice. This flexibility allows you to customize each bowl based on personal preferences or what you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for different eating occasions.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 cup almond milk or any plant-based milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together for a creamy, delicious bowl.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Steam the Broccoli

In the same pot, add broccoli florets and steam for about 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a blender, combine the drained tofu, nutritional yeast, almond milk, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Tofu Broccoli Alfredo Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try adding some crushed red pepper or lemon juice for a bright finish.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Tofu Broccoli Alfredo, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the texture may change upon reheating. To maintain creaminess, reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of plant-based milk to rejuvenate the sauce.

Freezing is also an option, though it’s not ideal for the texture of the sauce. If you do freeze it, store the sauce separately from the pasta and broccoli, using freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the stove.

Dietary Modifications

For those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, you can substitute the fettuccine with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. This swap not only lowers the carb count but also adds a fresh, vegetable-based crunch to your dish without compromising on flavor.

If you're allergic to soy or looking for a nut-free option, try using chickpea or lentil-based pasta. This addition boosts protein content while ensuring it's still a filling meal. Choose a pasta that’s dense enough to hold up when mixed with the Alfredo sauce for the best results.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the veggies in your bowl! For a seasonal twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. This not only enhances the nutrient profile but also introduces new textures and flavor combinations to keep things exciting.

For a spicier kick, incorporate a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce into the Alfredo sauce before blending. This will give your dish a warm, inviting heat that plays nicely with the creamy sauce and the earthy tofu.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta you prefer will work well in this recipe.

→ Is the sauce freezeable?

Yes, the Alfredo sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before using.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can add great flavor.

→ How can I make the sauce richer?

For a richer sauce, consider adding a bit of cashew cream along with or in place of the tofu.