Description

This Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Al dente pasta is tossed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce with tender broccoli florets for a dish that’s both cozy and satisfying. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy go-to meal that the whole family will love – with or without meat.

Ingredients

Units Scale

12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great)

3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: red pepper flakes or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the pasta and broccoli:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Add broccoli during the last 3–4 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce:

In the same pot or a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).

Add cheese and seasonings:

Stir in cheddar, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combine:

Add drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Stir gently until everything is coated in the creamy, cheesy goodness. Serve hot.

Notes

For added protein, stir in grilled chicken, bacon, or chickpeas.
Want it extra creamy? Add a splash of cream or cream cheese.

This dish reheats well, just add a splash of milk before microwaving.