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If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and veggie-packed meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, this Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, perfectly complemented by vibrant, garlicky broccoli florets. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. The rich cheddar melds beautifully with subtle spices and fresh broccoli, making every bite a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be straightforward, but each one plays a key role in building the fantastic flavor and texture of this dish. From creamy cheese to fresh broccoli and perfectly cooked pasta, simplicity shines here.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape to catch that cheesy sauce in every bite.
- 4 cups water: Essential for perfectly boiling your pasta without any fuss.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavors in both pasta and broccoli.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds color, crunch, and a healthy pop of green to lighten the dish.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Helps gently sauté the garlic and broccoli, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Provides fragrant warmth that infuses the broccoli.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates the broccoli’s natural sweetness during cooking.
- 2 tablespoons butter: The base for a silky, smooth cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly to creamy, dreamy consistency.
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended): For that rich creaminess that makes this sauce irresistible.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella and Parmesan blend): Melts into a gooey, flavorful sauce you’ll want to savor.
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional): Adds a subtle tang that deepens the cheese’s flavor complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sauce’s flavor to perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Brings a gentle smokiness that makes this pasta extra special.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the salt and pasta of your choice, stirring occasionally to keep things from sticking. Cook until al dente, which means the pasta should be tender but still have a pleasant bite. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water when draining—it’s going to be your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce later on!
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds, careful not to burn it. Then, add the bite-sized broccoli florets and sprinkle with salt. Stir everything together and cook until the broccoli is tender but still pops with vibrant green color. This step ensures your broccoli retains a slight crunch and fresh flavor, giving this dish a wonderful texture contrast.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Now, for the showstopper—the luscious cheese sauce. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking for about a minute to remove that raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking steadily to avoid lumps. Let the mixture gently simmer until it thickens into a creamy sauce. Then stir in the mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Turn the heat to low and add in your shredded cheese, stirring until it melts into a velvety sauce that’s ready to coat your pasta.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly so every noodle is drenched in cheesy goodness. Next, fold in the sautéed broccoli, evenly distributing those gorgeous green bites throughout. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of your reserved pasta water to loosen it up and achieve that perfect creamy consistency. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasoning—it’s your moment to make this pasta truly yours.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! Scoop generous portions onto plates, and feel free to sprinkle on extra cheddar, a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth, or toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. Serve it warm and watch how fast it disappears around your table.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your dish with garnishes that add both flavor and personality. Freshly chopped parsley or chives can bring a hint of herbal brightness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese offers a sharp, salty touch, while crispy bacon bits introduce a smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta and tender broccoli.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider serving this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are always welcomed companions, perfect for mopping up every last drop of the cheesy sauce. If you want something light, steamed green beans or roasted carrots complement the flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or just to delight your guests, serve the Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil briefly until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, layer it in a casserole dish and bake for a comforting pasta bake. You can even stuff it inside hollowed-out bell peppers or tomatoes for a colorful, elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Broccoli Cheese Pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners. Just make sure to cool it to room temperature first to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
While this pasta tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed, the broccoli may soften slightly, but the flavors will still shine through.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwaving works too—cover the dish and heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Fresh garnishes after reheating can bring back some of that original vibrancy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a lovely sharpness, mixing in mozzarella or Parmesan creates a wonderfully melty and flavorful sauce. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to suit your taste.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, and use gluten-free pasta. The taste and texture will still be delicious!
Can I substitute fresh broccoli with frozen broccoli?
Frozen broccoli works in a pinch, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before sautéing to avoid excess moisture. Fresh broccoli, however, maintains a better texture and color for this recipe.
How spicy is this dish?
This Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe is mild and comforting, with just a subtle hint of smokiness from the paprika. If you like a bit of heat, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when serving.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese substitutes. Sauté the broccoli in oil as usual, and the creamy texture will come from the non-dairy milk and thickener.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying, and vibrant meal that feels like a celebration on a plate, give this Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe a try. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort and joy with every bite, proving that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Once you’ve made it, I bet it will join your list of beloved recipes to revisit again and again.
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Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheese Pasta is a comforting and delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes. Tender pasta tossed in a rich, homemade cheese sauce, combined with lightly sautéed garlic-infused broccoli creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of mozzarella and Parmesan)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add salt and the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the chopped broccoli and season with salt. Stir and cook until broccoli is slightly tender but still vibrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce cook and thicken for a few minutes. Stir in mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well. Stir in the sautéed broccoli until evenly combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra cheese, red pepper flakes, or toasted breadcrumbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy pasta with broccoli.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer and creamier cheese sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Mustard powder is optional but enhances the cheesy flavor.
- Feel free to substitute broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.
- For a vegetarian dish, ensure cheese is made with vegetarian rennet.
