If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, it’s hard to beat Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta. With twirls of perfectly cooked pasta, vibrant green broccoli, and a silky blanket of gooey cheese sauce, this dish marries cozy and satisfying in every forkful. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weeknight dinner or something delicious to meal prep for the week, this pasta brings together the best of both worlds—fresh veggies and irresistible richness—in about 30 minutes. Even picky eaters tend to swoon for that luscious cheese sauce hugging every noodle and tender floret!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is in its handful of classic, accessible ingredients. Each element plays a starring role—think vibrant broccoli, melty cheeses, and a touch of aromatic garlic. Here’s what you’ll need, with a quick note on how each ingredient earns its place:
- Pasta (12 oz penne, fusilli, or shells): These shapes catch the sauce in every crevice for a luxurious bite every time.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups, fresh or frozen): Adds a pop of color, flavor, and bonus nutrients—plus, they cook right alongside the pasta.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Forms the creamy base of the sauce and brings a little richness without overwhelming the taste.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with savory aroma and depth.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the cheese sauce to that just-right consistency.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Keeps the sauce silky and light, balancing indulgence with freshness.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): For an extra touch of decadence—this is what takes the creaminess over the top!
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Offers classic meltiness and that sharp cheddar flavor in every forkful.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds nutty, salty complexity for a true Italian touch.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Rounds out the flavors—taste and add as you go!
- Red pepper flakes (pinch, optional): For a little gentle heat that brightens the richness of the dish.
How to Make Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli Together
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—think of this as the foundation for all that pasta goodness. Add your chosen pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions. Here’s a fun trick: in the last 3 to 4 minutes, toss your broccoli florets right into the same pot. This way, both elements end up perfectly tender at the same time, and you only have to wash one pot!
Step 2: Drain and Set Aside
Once your pasta is al dente and the broccoli is bright green and fork-tender, drain them both well. Set this aside while you work your magic on the sauce—a crucial step so the pasta doesn’t overcook or get sticky.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. When it begins to bubble, add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute, releasing its irresistible aroma. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for another minute. You’re forming a roux—the foundation for silky cheese sauce!
Step 4: Build the Cheese Sauce
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking steadily to avoid lumps. Continue whisking while the mixture gently simmers for 4 to 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Now for the star moment: reduce the heat and add both the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the sauce is gloriously smooth and creamy. This is where your Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta transforms into comfort food magic!
Step 5: Season and Combine Everything
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like things a little spicy. Taste and adjust, then add your drained pasta and broccoli right into the sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly so every nook and cranny gets coated in that irresistible cheesy goodness. Serve warm, with more Parmesan on top if you’re feeling extra fancy.
How to Serve Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta
Garnishes
The finishing touches matter! Shower each bowl with a little extra grated Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, or even some chopped fresh parsley for vibrant color. If you like a hint of heat, an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes does wonders.
Side Dishes
Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is wonderfully filling on its own, but it loves a little company. A crisp garden salad brightens the richness, garlic bread soaks up every last drop of sauce, and roasted cherry tomatoes add sweet-tart contrast. Choose one or two to round out your table!
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta into the centerpiece by serving it in a large, shallow bowl for sharing family-style. Or try portioning it into individual ramekins, topping with extra cheese, and briefly broiling for a bubbly, golden finish. For gatherings, sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs for a hint of crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta will keep happily in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a fabulous candidate for next-day lunches or busy weeknights.
Freezing
While cheese sauces can sometimes separate after freezing, you can absolutely freeze this dish if needed. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers and stash for up to two months. For the best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your pasta back to its original creamy glory, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir gently and patiently until warmed through—this helps the sauce regain its smooth, dreamy consistency. Microwaving works too, but be sure to use low power and stir halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?
Absolutely! While this recipe is all about that classic Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta vibe, you can swap in cauliflower, peas, or asparagus for an equally tasty twist. Just be sure to adjust cooking times so everything stays tender-crisp.
What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Short, ridged shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells are ideal because they trap the cheese sauce beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite or whatever you have on hand—just check the package for cooking times.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Swap in your preferred gluten-free pasta and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce. The result is just as creamy and delicious, with all the flavor of traditional Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta.
How can I add more protein?
For a heartier meal, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon at the same time you add the pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Chickpeas or white beans are tasty vegetarian options that blend right in.
Is there a lighter way to make this without sacrificing creaminess?
Try skipping the heavy cream and use all milk (preferably whole or 2 percent), or opt for half-and-half. You can also scale back on the cheeses if needed, though they really do provide that classic Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta character!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for something truly soul-satisfying that comes together quickly and never fails to impress, you owe it to yourself to give this Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta a spot in your dinner lineup. It’s a dish the whole family will crave, and you’ll love how easy it is to adapt to your taste. Let me know how you make it your own!
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Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and satisfying dish with this Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this vegetarian pasta is rich, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells)
Broccoli:
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Boil salted water, add pasta and cook. Add broccoli in the last 3–4 minutes, then drain.
- Make Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, whisk in flour, add milk and cream. Cook until thickened.
- Add Cheese: Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta and broccoli in the sauce until coated.
- Serve: Top with extra Parmesan if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can add cooked chicken or crispy bacon for extra protein.
- Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
