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–+ servings

Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Delight

This Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Delight is a comforting, satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this one-pot meal is quick, easy, and packed with cheesy goodness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, fusilli, or shells)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or unsweetened plant-based milk)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • optional 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, mustard powder, or crushed red pepper flakes (for added depth)

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot. Cook until just tender. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
  • In the same pot or a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional spices.
  • Add the cooked pasta and broccoli back to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Thin the sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
  • Garnish with extra shredded cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

You can use frozen broccoli—just thaw and drain it well before adding. Add cooked chicken or white beans for a protein boost. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 16gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6g
Keyword Broccoli Pasta, Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal, Vegetarian Dinner
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