Cheesy & Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe for Ultimate Indulgence

Comfort meets culinary magic in this unexpectedly delightful cheesy and creamy broccoli pasta that will make you swoon.

Pasta lovers understand the power of a simple yet extraordinary dish.

Such luxurious combinations speak directly to our hunger for something warm and satisfying.

Crisp broccoli florets nestle perfectly amid silky noodles, creating a harmony of textures that dance on your palate.

Minimal ingredients guarantee maximum flavor in this weeknight wonder.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the rich, velvety sauce that coats every single strand.

We promise this recipe will become your new go-to meal that impresses without demanding complex techniques.

Pairing Ideas for Broccoli Pasta Plates

• Enhance the creamy pasta's richness with a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, cutting through the cheese and complementing the garlic notes.
• Create a perfect side by toasting crusty bread with fresh parsley, garlic, and a light butter spread to soak up the extra cheese sauce.
• Balance the heavy pasta with a light, zesty salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to add brightness and nutrition.
• Add lean protein by serving sliced, herb-seasoned grilled chicken on top or alongside the pasta for a complete, satisfying meal.

Mix It Up with Broccoli Pasta Variations

• Vegan Veggie Delight: Replace dairy cheese with nutritional yeast, use plant-based milk, and add roasted cauliflower instead of broccoli for a creamy, dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free Garden Pasta: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free quinoa or rice pasta, use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening, and add zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Protein Power Bowl: Incorporate grilled chicken or crispy tofu cubes, mix in spinach leaves, and sprinkle with sunflower seeds for added protein and crunch.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Use cauliflower rice instead of pasta, keep the cheese sauce, and add grilled shrimp for a light, protein-packed meal.

Broccoli Pasta FAQ Guide

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it directly to the boiling water a few minutes before draining the pasta. Make sure to drain excess water thoroughly.

• What if I don't have both cheddar and parmesan cheese?

You can use one type of cheese or substitute with other melting cheeses like gruyere, monterey jack, or mozzarella. The key is using a cheese that melts smoothly.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce cheese quantity, add more vegetables like spinach or cauliflower, and opt for low-fat milk. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of some milk for extra protein.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this broccoli pasta is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the cheeses you use are made without animal rennet if you want a strict vegetarian version.

Broccoli Pasta That Hits the Spot

• Prepare a delicious meal in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a satisfying and nutritious dinner that doesn't require complicated cooking skills.
• Sneak in healthy broccoli within a cheesy sauce that even picky eaters will love, transforming a potentially challenging vegetable into a delightful meal everyone enjoys.
• Create a restaurant-quality dish using simple, affordable ingredients that transform ordinary pasta into an extraordinary dining experience without breaking the bank.

What You’ll Need for Broccoli Pasta Goodness

Main Ingredients:

Pasta and Broccoli: – Pasta, Broccoli: Hearty base that provides texture and nutritional balance. Choose short pasta like penne or rotini for easy sauce coating. Broccoli adds green freshness and extra nutrients.

Cheese Sauce Components: – Butter, Flour, Milk: Essential for creating a smooth, rich cheese sauce. Use unsalted butter for better flavor control. Whole milk works best for creamy consistency.

Cheese Varieties: – Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Primary flavor makers with sharp and nutty notes. Sharp cheddar provides more intense taste. Freshly grated parmesan offers superior melting quality.

Seasoning Elements: – Garlic, Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Adds depth and complexity to the dish. Fresh garlic brings aromatic punch. Red pepper flakes optional for slight heat kick.

Optional Garnish: – Parsley: Fresh herb for bright color and light herbaceous finish. Fresh parsley recommended over dried for better flavor.

Getting Started with Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Boil and Blanch Pasta and Greens

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Toss in pasta and cook until almost done. Drop broccoli florets into the same pot during the final three minutes of cooking. Drain everything in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

Return the pot to the stove over medium heat. Melt butter until it becomes golden and fragrant. Add minced garlic and sauté quickly, releasing its aromatic essence. Sprinkle flour and stir constantly for about 60 seconds to develop a rich, nutty base.

Step 3: Build Silky Sauce

Gradually pour milk into the pot, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring frequently until it transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency.

Step 4: Melt Cheese Magic

• Sharp cheddar
• Parmesan
• Grated mozzarella (optional)

• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (for optional kick)

Step 5: Combine and Coat

Fold pasta and broccoli into the luxurious cheese sauce. Ensure every morsel gets a perfect coating of creamy goodness. Warm through for an additional minute.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer to serving dishes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or additional cheese if desired. Dive into this comforting, cheesy delight while it’s piping hot.

Tips to Maximize Your Broccoli Pasta Experience

• Boost Broccoli Brightness: Blanch broccoli quickly in boiling water to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture before adding to the pasta.
• Cheese Melting Magic: Use room temperature cheeses for smoother, more evenly melted sauce without lumps or graininess.
• Sauce Consistency Secrets: Whisk milk gradually and continuously to prevent sauce from becoming too thick or developing unwanted flour clumps.
• Pasta Water Power: Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water to help adjust sauce consistency if needed, adding silkiness and helping sauce cling better.
• Diet-Friendly Swap: Replace cow's milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version, using dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan adaptation.

Save and Reheat Broccoli Pasta the Smart Way

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let the pasta cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or milk to prevent drying. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warm and creamy.
• Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore sauce's smoothness. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and maintain creamy texture.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the sauce's consistency.

Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Irresistible cheesy and creamy broccoli pasta delivers comfort on a plate, blending rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts will savor each forkful of this quick, satisfying meal that promises warmth and deliciousness in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (penne, shells, or any short pasta)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2% preferred)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Thickening Ingredient:

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Optional Topping:

• Extra shredded cheese or chopped parsley for topping (optional)

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Instructions

1. Initiate by preparing a generously salted water bath in a substantial cooking vessel, allowing it to reach a vigorous boil for pasta preparation.
2. Submerge pasta into the roiling liquid, following package guidance for optimal cooking duration. Introduce broccoli florets during the final three minutes of pasta transformation.
3. Carefully extract pasta and verdant vegetables, reserving them momentarily while maintaining their warmth and texture.
4. Transition to the same culinary receptacle, melting butter over moderate thermal intensity. Introduce minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to permeate the environment for approximately one minute.
5. Incorporate flour into the butter-garlic amalgamation, creating a foundational roux through gentle manipulation and consistent stirring.
6. Gradually integrate milk, whisking methodically to eliminate potential luminary clusters, allowing the mixture to evolve and thicken through consistent thermal exposure.
7. Gracefully fold cheddar and parmesan varieties into the developing sauce, ensuring complete integration and achieving a luxuriously smooth consistency.
8. Season the emerging sauce with precise salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to elevate flavor complexity.
9. Reunite the reserved pasta and broccoli with the velvety cheese sauce, ensuring comprehensive coating through delicate folding techniques.
10. Warm the entire composition thoroughly, guaranteeing harmonious temperature and flavor distribution.
11. Present the dish immediately, optionally adorning with additional cheese shavings or fresh parsley for visual and gustatory enhancement.

Notes

• Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent mushy texture when mixed with sauce.
• Use fresh broccoli for crisp texture and maximum nutritional value, cutting florets into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Consider adding protein like grilled chicken or crispy bacon for a more substantial meal.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like gruyere or fontina for unique flavor profiles.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 456
• Sugar: 19 g
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg