broccoli cheese pasta recipe

If you are looking for a comforting, vibrant dish that combines the fresh goodness of veggies with a rich, velvety sauce, this broccoli cheese pasta recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It beautifully balances tender pasta, crisp-tender broccoli, and a luscious homemade cheese sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe brings warm, satisfying flavors to your table with ease, making every bite a celebration of creamy, cheesy, and fresh harmony.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

This broccoli cheese pasta recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in the final dish’s flavor, texture, and color. From the perfectly chewy pasta and bright green broccoli to the silky cheese sauce, every component is essential.

• Pasta (12 oz): Choose penne, rotini, or fettuccine for the perfect sauce cling and bite.
• Water (4 cups): For boiling the pasta, with a teaspoon of salt to season it during cooking.
• Broccoli florets (2 cups): Chopped into bite-sized pieces for that fresh green crunch and nutrition.
• Olive oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a light, fruity richness for sautéing the garlic and broccoli.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Just a hint to awaken flavors without overpowering.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon for broccoli, 1 teaspoon for pasta, 1/2 teaspoon for sauce): Enhances all the layers of taste in the dish.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Creates the creamy base for the cheese sauce with warmth and depth.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce perfectly, giving it that classic smooth texture.
• Milk (2 cups, whole preferred): Adds richness and creaminess to the cheese sauce, making it luscious and smooth.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a gooey, flavorful cheese melt.
• Mustard powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle tang and depth enhancing the cheese flavor.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A gentle kick that balances the creaminess.
• Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a hint of smokiness to the sauce, elevating the dish further.

How to Make broccoli cheese pasta recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, perfect for cooking your chosen pasta. Using a pot like a cast iron Dutch oven is ideal as it offers plenty of space to cook and toss later. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking together. Once done, drain the pasta but be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water; this will come in handy later to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the pasta cooks, heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds, taking care not to let it burn. Toss in the bite-sized broccoli florets, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and sauté for a few minutes until the broccoli becomes tender yet still retains its vibrant green color. This step adds a lovely texture contrast and fresh flavor to the dish. Set aside once done.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, whisking constantly for about a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk vigorously to avoid lumps forming, and allow the mixture to thicken gently, which will take a few minutes. Once thickened, stir in the mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes irresistibly smooth and creamy. Freshly grated cheese here makes all the difference, offering a melt that is richer and silkier than pre-packaged shreds.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now for the fun part—adding the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Mix well to coat every piece, then fold in the sautéed broccoli, distributing the veggies evenly throughout. If at any point the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it and get that perfect silky consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed to balance all the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your broccoli cheese pasta while warm and creamy, garnished with extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to bring some heat. Toasted breadcrumbs make a wonderful crunchy topping too, adding a satisfying contrast to the smooth sauce and tender pasta. This is a dish that’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table.

How to Serve broccoli cheese pasta recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes brings a special touch to this broccoli cheese pasta recipe. Think freshly chopped parsley or chives to introduce a burst of green freshness, a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar for enhanced cheesiness, or crispy bacon bits to add smoky crunch. Toasted breadcrumbs drizzled with a little olive oil offer texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with refreshing side dishes. A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness, while garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette provides an excellent vehicle for scooping up every last bit of that luscious cheese sauce. For a lighter option, roasted cherry tomatoes bring a juicy, tangy counterpoint that brightens the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this broccoli cheese pasta recipe into a showstopper by serving it in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, arrange it on a large platter with a drizzle of chili oil for a subtle spicy kick. You could even stuff it inside hollowed-out bell peppers, then bake for a fun, colorful presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover broccoli cheese pasta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent the broccoli from becoming soggy. Before storing, give it a quick toss to distribute the cheese sauce evenly, so it reheats consistently.

Freezing

If you want to save some for longer, this recipe freezes nicely. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, separating servings if possible. While the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after freezing, the flavors remain delightful. To prevent sauce separation, reheat gently and stir often.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating also works well—just cover and stir halfway through to ensure even heating without drying out. The creamy sauce will come back to life quickly with a little care.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture to avoid watering down the sauce, and sauté it gently to keep some texture.

What type of cheese is best for this broccoli cheese pasta recipe?

Cheddar cheese is classic and gives a rich, sharp flavor, but blending mozzarella and Parmesan creates a beautifully creamy and flavorful sauce. Freshly grating cheese ensures a smooth melt.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with plant-based margarine, use a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk, and replace cheese with vegan cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the texture and melting properties may vary.

Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?

Definitely. The reserved pasta water contains starch which helps to loosen and bind the cheese sauce to the pasta, giving that silky coating without thinning the sauce too much.

How can I add protein to this broccoli cheese pasta recipe?

Adding cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms makes great protein boosts. For a vegetarian option, toss in some white beans or chickpeas for extra heartiness.

Final Thoughts

This broccoli cheese pasta recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, incredibly simple yet packed with flavor and comfort. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try—every creamy, cheesy forkful brings a satisfying balance of fresh broccoli and rich indulgence you and your loved ones will adore. Once you experience this vibrant, delicious combo, it’s sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen rotation!

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