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Broccoli Cheese Pasta

Broccoli Cheese Pasta: Quick, Creamy Comfort for Everyone

This vegetarian-friendly Broccoli Cheese Pasta is a quick and creamy dish that satisfies cravings in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta Choose penne or rotini for better sauce adherence.
  • 4 quarts water Essential for perfectly cooking the pasta.
  • 1 tbsp salt Enhances flavor in both the pasta and broccoli.
For the Broccoli
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Adds nutrition and a satisfying crunch; fresh or frozen works perfectly.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Used to sauté the broccoli, adding healthy fat.
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh garlic intensifies the aromatic flavor of the dish.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter Creates a rich roux necessary for the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce; gluten-free flour can be used.
  • 2 cups milk Offers creaminess and forms the base of the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese The star of the dish for its flavor; fresh grated cheese melts smoother.
  • 1 tsp mustard powder Adds a subtle tang to complement the cheese.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Provide seasoning and warmth, contributing to the overall flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika Provide seasoning and warmth, contributing to the overall flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • colander

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring about 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil and add a generous amount of salt. Cook your penne or rotini pasta until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the broccoli florets, season with salt, and cook for around 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, cooking it for about a minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes; stir in mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  4. Lower the heat and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the cheese sauce, stirring until melted. Fold in the cooked pasta and sautéed broccoli, mixing until evenly coated. Add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  5. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with additional shredded cheese or red pepper flakes, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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