If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug, the Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to! This dish brings together tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce that’s rich without being overwhelming. It’s quick to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights, yet special enough to impress guests or simply treat yourself. With every bite, you’ll savor a perfect balance of creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and a touch of fresh green that brightens the whole plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the magic in this Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe starts with a handful of simple, everyday ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, from the pasta’s comforting chew, the broccoli’s fresh crunch, to the creamy cheesy sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
- 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
- 4 cups broccoli, chopped: Adds a fresh, green pop with a satisfying bite and plenty of nutrients.
- 1 cup chicken broth (not low sodium): Provides a savory base that deepens the sauce’s flavor.
- 1 cup light cream: Brings that rich, creamy texture without feeling too heavy.
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce the perfect consistency.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Offers subtle, savory sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt: Infuses the dish with a mild garlicky kick while seasoning it just right.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Gives the sauce a bold cheesy flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded: Adds a nutty, salty finish that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Offers a gentle spice that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it just until al dente – this means tender but still with a little bite. About four minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, toss in the chopped broccoli. This timing lets the broccoli soften slightly while maintaining a bright green color and satisfying texture. Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli together but skipping the rinse keeps all those starchy juices that help the sauce cling later.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Using the same saucepan (waste not, want not!), whisk together chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking frequently until the mixture thickens and bubbles. That smooth, velvety consistency is the foundation for all the cheesy magic that follows.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese Sauce
Once your sauce has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses until they melt into a glossy, rich sauce. Then, fold in the drained pasta and broccoli, ensuring every piece is luxuriously coated. Finish it off with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get that seasoning just right. Serve immediately to enjoy that creamy, cheesy goodness at its peak.
How to Serve Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or a few red pepper flakes on top adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle hint of freshness or heat that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. A light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten and balance the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines on its own but pairs spectacularly with a crisp, leafy side salad or some crusty garlic bread to mop up every last bit of sauce. A roasted chicken breast or grilled shrimp can turn this into a more substantial meal without stealing the spotlight from the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in colorful bowls or on rustic wooden plates to emphasize its homey vibe. For dinner parties, you could also portion it into small ramekins and bake with extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust that wows your guests visually and in flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The pasta will soak up the sauce over time, so don’t be surprised if it thickens — but don’t worry, reheating instructions below will get it back to silky perfection.
Freezing
The creamy and cheesy texture means freezing isn’t ideal as it may cause separation or a grainy sauce upon thawing. For best results, enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerate instead.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently until heated through and creamy again, avoiding high heat to keep the cheese sauce smooth and tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and parmesan give fantastic flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella for creaminess or gouda for a smokier note. Just be mindful of melting properties to keep that luscious sauce.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this creamy pasta?
Yes! Swap the light cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Adjust seasoning as needed since these substitutes vary in flavor and salt level.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Frozen broccoli works well if fresh isn’t available. Add it a little earlier during cooking to ensure it’s heated through and tender, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
Penne and rotini are ideal because their ridges and tubes hold onto the sauce wonderfully, but farfalle, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni will yield delicious results too.
How can I make this dish more protein-packed?
Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon bits to the pasta. Even tossing in some cooked chickpeas or white beans can boost protein while complementing the creamy texture nicely.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about this Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe that makes it a true favorite in any kitchen. Its simplicity masks the depth of flavor and richness that comes through in every forkful. If you want a meal that’s quick, easy, and full of warmth and cheesy goodness, this recipe is an absolute must-try. I promise it’ll become a staple you’ll want to make again and again!
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Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines tender pasta and broccoli with a rich, cheesy sauce made from sharp cheddar, parmesan, and light cream. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini, approx 3 cups dry)
- 4 cups broccoli, chopped
Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth (not low sodium)
- 1 cup light cream
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 4 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the chopped broccoli to the boiling water. Once both are cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together but do not rinse to preserve starch for the sauce. Set them aside.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same saucepan, whisk together chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue whisking until it boils and thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Combine: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Add the drained pasta and broccoli back to the pan and toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
Notes
- Do not rinse the pasta and broccoli after draining; this helps the sauce adhere better.
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor; you can adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it before combining with pasta.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately as the sauce may thicken upon standing.
