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Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe — A Creamy, Cheesy Delight

Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe – Your New Creamy Comfort Classic

This Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine) Choose short pasta for better sauce adhesion.
  • 4 cups water Essential for cooking the pasta.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Helps to elevate the flavor.
For the Broccoli
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Ensure they're tender but not mushy.
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil For sautéing the broccoli.
  • 1 clove garlic Minced for better flavor release.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for broccoli) Additional seasoning for the veggies.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter Base for the rich cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour To thicken the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups milk For creaminess.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Freshly grated for best melting.
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder Adds subtle tang.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for cheese sauce) Balances cheese richness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika Adds a mild smokiness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Add 12 oz of pasta, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 minced clove of garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, then add 2 cups of broccoli florets with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook for 3 minutes until vibrant and slightly tender.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add 2 cups of milk, whisking continuously. Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened, then stir in 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika.
  4. Reduce heat to low and add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Gently fold in the cooked pasta and sautéed broccoli. If too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy! Pair with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. For freezing, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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