Easy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta – Creamy, Comforting, Delicious

If you’re craving something warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor (and a good dose of veggies), this Easy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is calling your name. Imagine tender pasta coated in a velvety cheese sauce, combined with vibrant green broccoli that’s perfectly cooked—not mushy, not raw—just right. It’s the ultimate feel-good meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, looking for a cozy dinner after a long day, or just in the mood for something comforting, this dish is guaranteed to deliver.

With its rich cheesy flavor, creamy texture, and hearty bite, this dish is more than just a quick dinner—it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again. And did I mention it’s a one-pot wonder if you play your cards right? That’s right—minimal cleanup, maximum comfort.

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Pasta

• Super quick and easy — ready in about 25 minutes!
• A full serving of veggies disguised in cheesy goodness
• Kid-approved and picky-eater-friendly
• Perfect as a vegetarian main dish or a hearty side
• Uses simple pantry staples — no fancy ingredients needed
• Customizable with different cheeses, pastas, or add-ins
• Comfort food you can feel good about
• Excellent for meal prep and leftovers

You’ll love how easy this is to make, and your whole family will love how good it tastes!

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Here’s what you need to make this dreamy, creamy pasta:

• Pasta: Short pasta works best—think penne, shells, rotini, or fusilli. These shapes catch all that cheesy sauce in their curves and ridges.
• Broccoli: Use fresh if you can, but frozen works just as well in a pinch. Just add it straight to the pot—no need to thaw.
• Butter: For sautéing garlic and creating the base of the sauce. You can substitute plant-based butter if you’re keeping things dairy-free.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced. This gives your sauce depth and a little kick of flavor.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce into that luscious, creamy texture. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour if needed.
• Milk: Whole milk gives the best richness, but 2%, almond, or oat milk all work too.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor and creaminess. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Adds salty, nutty depth—highly recommended.
• Seasonings: Salt and black pepper are a must. Add a pinch of onion powder, mustard powder, or red pepper flakes for a little flair.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Pasta

This recipe comes together quickly, so have everything prepped before you start cooking.

1. Boil the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions.
Here’s the trick: In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, toss in your broccoli florets. This lets them cook just enough without getting too soft. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water—this starchy liquid can help loosen your sauce later if needed.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot (yay for fewer dishes!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour to make a roux—it’ll look like a paste. Let it cook for a minute or two to get rid of that raw flour taste.

3. Add the Milk
Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Stir constantly until the sauce begins to thicken—it should coat the back of a spoon after 4–5 minutes.

4. Stir in the Cheese
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan. Keep stirring until everything is smooth and melty. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of onion powder or mustard powder for a flavor boost if you’d like.

5. Combine and Serve
Add your cooked pasta and broccoli back to the pot. Toss everything together until fully coated in that dreamy cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Sprinkle with extra cheese or fresh parsley, and serve hot!

Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh cheese: Shredding your own cheese from a block will give you the smoothest, creamiest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Adding it in the last few minutes of pasta cooking helps it stay bright green and just tender.
• Avoid grainy sauce: Keep the heat low when adding the cheese, and don’t let the sauce boil after the cheese goes in.
• Make it extra creamy: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
• Low on time? Use frozen broccoli straight from the freezer—no need to thaw first.
• Want to add crunch? Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before serving.

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Variations to Try

This cheesy broccoli pasta is super adaptable. Here are a few ways to mix things up:

• Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, sautéed tofu, white beans, or even some chickpeas.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Use other veggies: Try adding spinach, peas, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra greens.
• Swap the cheese: Cheddar is classic, but gouda, mozzarella, fontina, or a mix of cheeses can take the flavor to new heights.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne, chili flakes, or even a bit of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
• Bake it: Want a crispy top? Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with more cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy broccoli pasta makes a great main dish, but it’s also fantastic as a hearty side.

Here are a few pairing ideas:

• With a fresh green salad – Add a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Alongside grilled chicken or tofu – For a more protein-packed meal.
• Next to garlic bread or dinner rolls – Because carbs on carbs is always a good idea.
• With a bowl of tomato soup – Ultimate comfort combo.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? Lucky you—this pasta keeps really well!

• Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze it, but note the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. Best to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
• To Reheat: Add a splash of milk or water and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often to restore the creaminess.

Meal Prep Tip: This pasta is great for meal prep! Make a big batch and portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just toss it directly into the boiling pasta water during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can use a mix of your favorites—gouda, mozzarella, or even a smoky cheese for more depth.

Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely. Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese. Look for a creamy vegan cheddar-style cheese for best results.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge. Just reheat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and bring back the creaminess.

What pasta shapes work best?
Short pastas like penne, rotini, fusilli, or shells hold the sauce beautifully and are easy to eat.

Can I turn this into a baked dish?
Definitely. After mixing everything together, pour it into a casserole dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly.

How do I make the sauce smoother?
Avoid boiling after adding cheese, use freshly shredded cheese, and stir constantly over low heat for the best texture.

Is it kid-friendly?
100%! The creamy cheese sauce and mild broccoli make this a hit with kids—and a sneaky way to get them to eat more veggies.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is the kind of dish that makes dinner feel like a hug in a bowl. It’s creamy, cheesy, cozy, and packed with flavor—not to mention quick enough for any weeknight dinner. With just a few pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can have a warm, satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special but couldn’t be simpler.

Whether you enjoy it fresh off the stove or warmed up the next day, this cheesy pasta is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s one of our absolute favorites!