There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from transforming simple ingredients into a comforting meal. Picture this: the vibrant green of fresh broccoli mingling with a creamy, cheesy sauce, all enveloped around perfectly cooked pasta. I stumbled upon this delightful combo one evening when I realized I had a fridge full of neglected vegetables and a craving for something hearty. The result? A Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta that not only brought my kitchen to life but also turned a mundane weeknight dinner into a feast.
Perfect for those who are tired of the fast-food grind, this dish embraces the wholesome goodness of broccoli while delighting your taste buds with rich, melted cheese. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s not only easy and delicious but also sure to impress any guests you invite over. Join me as we dive into this quick and flavorful recipe that proves homemade food can easily outshine its takeout counterparts!
Why You'll Love This Broccoli Pasta
- This Broccoli Pasta is incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- The combination of creamy, cheesy flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Its versatility allows for endless customization, so you can add your favorite proteins or other veggies.
- Plus, the vibrant green of the broccoli and the richness of the sauce make it a visually appealing dish that you’ll be proud to share with friends and family.
Broccoli Pasta Ingredients
Dive into the essential components for a cozy evening with this comforting Broccoli Pasta dish!
For the Pasta
• 12 oz pasta – your choice of shapes like penne or rotini works beautifully with the sauce.
For the Broccoli
• 3 cups broccoli florets – fresh broccoli adds vibrant color and health benefits to this creamy dish.
For the Sauce
• 3 tablespoon unsalted butter – the base for sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – enhances the flavor with its aromatic and savory warmth.
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour – essential for thickening the sauce to that perfect creamy texture.
• 1 cup milk – gives the sauce a luscious consistency; whole milk or plant-based alternatives can work too!
• 0.5 cup heavy cream – adds an indulgent creaminess that makes this dish extra special.
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded) – the star of the show, bringing delightful cheesiness to the pasta.
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (grated) – a sprinkle of savory goodness that elevates the cheese blend.
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – don’t shy away from adjusting to your preferred flavor!
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper – a dash of spice to balance the creaminess of the sauce.
Grab these ingredients and get ready for a deliciously cheesy journey with Broccoli Pasta that will surely warm your heart and nourish your soul!
How to Make Broccoli Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add 12 oz of pasta and 3 cups of broccoli florets. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, allowing the pasta to retain some heat.
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Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, melt 3 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
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Make the Roux: Whisk in 2 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes. This will form a roux and help thicken your sauce nicely.
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Add Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk and 0.5 cup of heavy cream, whisking continuously. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, which should take around 5 minutes.
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Melt the Cheeses: Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 0.25 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy delight with family and friends!
Optional: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Broccoli Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that will make this Broccoli Pasta even more enjoyable!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy with almond or coconut milk and vegan cheese for a creamy yet dairy-free experience.
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Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans to elevate the dish and turn it into a satisfying one-pan meal.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy undertone that brings a vibrant heat to every bite.
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Veggie Packed: Incorporate other vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers to add colors and nutrients that enhance the overall flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to ensure everyone can enjoy this creamy delight without compromising taste or texture.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in toasted pine nuts or walnuts to introduce a pleasant crunch and delightful nutty essence that perfectly complements the sauce.
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Herbaceous Twist: Fresh basil, parsley, or thyme can be added for a fragrant touch, brightening the dish and delivering bursts of fresh flavor.
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Crispy Topping: Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and bake until golden for a satisfying crunch on top of your creamy pasta.
Each variation brings its own joy and character, inviting you to create a personalized pasta dish that suits your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Broccoli Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can cook the pasta and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to coat them lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. The creamy cheese sauce can be prepared and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently, mixing it with the pasta and broccoli until everything is warmed through and coated in delicious cheesy goodness. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table in no time, without sacrificing that homemade flavor!
What to Serve with Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta?
Creating a delightful dining experience can be as simple as knowing what to pair with your creamy pasta dish.
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Garlic Bread: A crusty, buttery loaf helps soak up every drop of the delicious sauce while adding a satisfying crunch.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and a tangy dressing add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the broccoli pasta. A sprinkle of parmesan ties the flavors together beautifully.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Tender yet crisp, these add a perfectly fresh element to balance the creamy indulgence, making your meal feel lighter.
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Grilled Chicken: Adding juicy, seasoned chicken provides protein and a savory touch that complements the cheese without overwhelming it.
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Chardonnay: This white wine's crisp flavors refresh the palate while enhancing the creamy textures of the dish. A perfect sip alongside your meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a high note with a light and airy dessert that offers a sweet contrast to the savory pasta.
Consider mixing and matching these sides for an inviting spread that transforms your dinner into a delightful occasion!
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: When reheating from frozen, ensure the dish is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. Stir well to reincorporate the cheese sauce.
Batch Cooking: This dish is perfect for batch cooking; simply double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal on busy nights!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Broccoli Pasta, make sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente for the best texture, as overcooked pasta can become mushy in the creamy sauce.
- Fresh broccoli florets can be blanched for a minute before adding to the pasta to keep their vibrant green color and nutritional benefits while ensuring they are tender yet crisp.
- To avoid lumps in your sauce, whisk the flour in while the butter is still bubbling to create a smooth roux before adding the milk and cream.
- Lastly, keep the heat at medium to avoid scorching the sauce during the thickening process, typically around 5 minutes, and stir continuously for an evenly creamy texture.
Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets are the best choice for this Broccoli Pasta. They provide a vibrant color and tender-crisp texture. Look for florets that are bright green, firm, and free of dark spots. You can also use frozen broccoli in a pinch, just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pasta.
How should I store leftover Broccoli Pasta?
For storage, place any leftover Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container and it will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or microwave. I recommend adding a splash of milk during reheating to restore that creamy texture.
Can I freeze Broccoli Pasta?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely, portion it out, and then seal it tightly. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. Stir it well during reheating to reincorporate that creamy sauce.
What should I do if my sauce is lumpy?
Oh no, lumps can be a bit frustrating! If you find your sauce is lumpy, don’t worry. You can use an immersion blender to smooth it out right in the pot. If you don’t have one, simply transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend it until smooth, then pour it back over the pasta and broccoli. To avoid lumps in the future, remember to whisk the flour into the bubbling butter until fully combined before adding the milk and cream.
Is this Broccoli Pasta suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. However, if you are catering to specific dietary needs, please keep in mind that it includes dairy. You can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the cheese with plant-based alternatives and using almond or oat milk and coconut cream instead of dairy options!
How long will my Broccoli Pasta stay fresh in the fridge?
You can enjoy your Broccoli Pasta for up to 3 days when stored correctly in the fridge. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you're preparing for meal prep, this dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, add pasta and broccoli florets. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until melted and creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Serve warm.
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