Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Indulge in a creamy and cheesy delight with this flavorful Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta recipe. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this dish combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce that will leave you craving for more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
Broccoli:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Boil the pasta until al dente. Add broccoli in the last 3 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, whisk in flour, then milk. Cook until thickened. Add cheeses and seasonings.
- Combine and Serve: Toss pasta and broccoli in the sauce. Adjust consistency with pasta water. Sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and cheese.
- Enhance protein with cooked chicken or bacon.
- Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
