Imagine a warm bowl of Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta, gently blending the nuttiness of cheese with the freshness of broccoli. Each bite strikes a perfect balance comforting enough to feel like a hug and nourishing enough to satisfy those busy weeknight cravings. This delightful dish comes together in a snap, making it the ideal solution for when you want something healthy yet delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Serving Versatility
What I love about Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is its flexibility. You can enjoy it in a variety of ways: serve it over rice for a heartier meal, toss it with your favorite noodles, wrap it in tortillas for a fun handheld option, or even savor it solo as a delightful main. It’s easy to customize, too, whether you want to keep it low-carb or add more veggies.
Full Recipe Section
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Combine the pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Serve warm and enjoy your creamy cheesy broccoli pasta!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with this recipe! It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy folks. The ingredients are budget-friendly, so you won’t break the bank. Each bowl is packed with big, cozy flavor while offering nutritional benefits from the broccoli. Plus, it’s so easy to customize to your taste, whether you want extra cheese or a sprinkle of herbs.
Cultural or Cooking Technique Note (Optional)
This dish draws inspiration from classic macaroni and cheese, merging comforting flavors with fresh veggies. It’s a simple yet effective example of how combining techniques like sautéing and simmering can elevate a basic pasta dish into something extraordinary.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over a fluffy bed of quinoa for a protein boost.
- Toss it in lettuce wraps for a light lunch.
- Pile it into a baked tortilla to create delicious quesadilla slices.
- Top with grilled chicken for added protein and flavor.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier sauce; pre-shredded cheese can be drier.
- Keep an eye on the heat; too high can cause the cheese to clump rather than melt beautifully.
- For perfectly chopped broccoli, make sure the florets are bite-sized to cook evenly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to help regain that creamy texture. You can also freeze it for up to three months just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Closing Paragraph
I believe cooking should be a joyful adventure! Try this Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta and feel free to make it your own by adding different veggies or spices. I can’t wait to hear how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments, and if you loved this recipe, please give it a rating!
🎀 Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe fills your kitchen with warmth and love just like it does in mine. Remember, every dish you create is a step on your culinary journey, so keep experimenting and enjoying along the way!
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“If you loved this recipe, don’t miss my Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta for another comforting favorite.”
Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Broccoli
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli) Choose your favorite pasta type.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Ensure they are bite-sized for even cooking.
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups milk Whole or low-fat milk works well.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella) Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture.
- 2 tbsp butter Unsalted butter is preferred.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour This will help thicken the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or parmesan cheese Add for extra flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Combining
- Combine the pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Serve warm and enjoy your creamy cheesy broccoli pasta!