If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, delicious, and surprisingly simple meal to whip up any night of the week, this Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. It perfectly balances tender pasta, vibrant sautéed broccoli, and a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce that wraps everything together in a warm, cheesy hug. Whether you’re craving something quick or want to impress friends without fuss, this dish delivers flavor and texture that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward and accessible ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, offering a harmonious mix of textures, tastes, and colorful appeal that makes this dish both nutritious and irresistibly tasty.
- Pasta (12 oz): Choose penne, rotini, or fettuccine for the perfect bite that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Water (4 cups) and Salt (1 tsp) for boiling: Essential to cook the pasta just right and add balance to the dish.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Chopped into bite-sized pieces, they offer a fresh, vibrant crunch and pack in nutrients.
- Olive oil (1 tsp): For sautéing the broccoli and garlic, adding a subtle richness.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds fragrant depth that elevates the veggies.
- Butter (2 tbsp): The base for the creamy cheese sauce with a smooth, buttery finish.
- All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Creates a roux that thickens the sauce perfectly.
- Milk (2 cups, whole recommended): For the silky cheese sauce with just the right amount of creaminess.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan to boost the gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Mustard powder (1/2 tsp, optional): Adds a subtle zing and enhances the cheese flavor.
- Salt (1/2 tsp), black pepper (1/4 tsp), and paprika (1/4 tsp): Seasonings that bring warmth and a touch of smokiness to the sauce.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the salt, then toss in your pasta of choice. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking together as they cook to a perfect al dente texture. Once ready, drain the pasta but save half a cup of the pasta water, which will come in handy later to adjust the sauce texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Gently warm the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just long enough for it to become fragrant, about 30 seconds. Introduce the broccoli florets along with a sprinkle of salt, cooking until the broccoli turns a bright green and softens slightly, but still retains a satisfying bite. Then remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Quickly whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about a minute to take away the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking nonstop to prevent lumps, allowing the sauce to thicken gently. Stir in mustard powder if using, salt, black pepper, and paprika to build layers of flavor. Turn the heat to low and fold in your shredded cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes luxuriously smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Bring your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly so every piece is coated with that divine creaminess. Add the sautéed broccoli, tossing gently to evenly distribute those bright green pops throughout. If you find the sauce a bit thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will release it to the perfect consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking—it’s your moment to make it just right!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
This Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe really shines when served warm and fresh. Feel free to sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top, a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or a handful of toasted breadcrumbs for delightful crunch. Dive in and enjoy every gooey, flavorful spoonful.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To add flair and texture, try topping the broccoli cheese pasta with freshly chopped parsley or basil for color and brightness. For a little kick, red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil brings a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Crispy toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled on top add a satisfying crunch that elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
Since the pasta is rich and hearty, it pairs beautifully with light and refreshing sides. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect to mop up every last bit of that cheesy sauce. For an extra touch, roasted cherry tomatoes or a lemony arugula salad brightens the meal with fresh acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the broccoli cheese pasta in individual mini cast-iron skillets or pretty ceramic bowls for a cozy, rustic look. You can also stuff the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or bake it briefly topped with breadcrumbs and cheese to create a bubbly, golden crust. These ideas turn a simple dish into a stunning table centerpiece that feels special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover broccoli cheese pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the creamy sauce texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead for busy nights, freeze the pasta without the broccoli first, as vegetables can become mushy after freezing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat while stirring in freshly steamed broccoli or your preferred fresh vegetables.
Reheating
Reheat your broccoli cheese pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring back its creamy smoothness. Avoid overheating, as too much heat can cause the cheese sauce to curdle or become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar offers great flavor and meltability, you can experiment with mozzarella for a milder, stretchier sauce or Parmesan for a sharper, nuttier taste. A mix of cheeses often creates the best flavor balance.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-based broths. Just double-check the cheese you use to ensure it’s made without animal rennet if you follow strict vegetarian guidelines.
Can I make the cheese sauce dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and replace butter with a plant-based alternative. Use vegan cheese shreds or nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor that complements the broccoli and pasta.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour in the sauce for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener. Use gluten-free pasta varieties to keep the dish entirely gluten-free without sacrificing flavor and texture.
What pasta shapes work best for the Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe?
Penne, rotini, and fettuccine are fantastic because they hold onto the creamy cheese sauce well. That said, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand—the key is pasta that can capture the sauce, making every bite delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites because it is quick, comforting, and packed with flavor and goodness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction in every forkful. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover why it’s so beloved. Happy cooking and happy eating!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and delicious Broccoli Cheese Pasta recipe featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich cheddar cheese sauce combined with sautéed garlic-infused broccoli florets. This comforting meal is easy to prepare in under 30 minutes and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, enhances flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (adds a slight smokiness)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add salt and pasta. Let it cook according to the package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the chopped broccoli and season with salt. Stir and cook until the broccoli is slightly tender but still vibrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about a minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Let the sauce cook for a few minutes until it thickens. Stir in mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well. Stir in the sautéed broccoli, ensuring even distribution. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra cheese, red pepper flakes, or toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Notes
- Save some pasta water to adjust the thickness of your cheese sauce if needed.
- Use whole milk for a creamier sauce, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
- Mustard powder is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to swap cheddar with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Add red pepper flakes or freshly ground black pepper for a little heat if desired.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour alternative in the roux.
