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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta is a comforting and cheesy dish combining tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sharp cheddar sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, delivering rich flavor and nutritious vegetables in every bite.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
  • 2 cups milk (or plant-based milk for vegan version)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or vegan cheese for vegan version)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. About two minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water so they soften slightly but stay crisp. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce Base: In the same pot or a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 1 minute until it turns light golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  3. Add Cheese and Season: Lower the heat to low, then slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to taste, stirring well to blend flavors.
  4. Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce: Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the pot with the cheese sauce. Gently toss to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce. Keep heat low to avoid breaking the sauce.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once warmed through and well combined, serve the Broccoli Cheddar Pasta immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for more pronounced flavor; mild cheddar can be bland.
  • Do not overcook broccoli to maintain vibrant color and crunch.
  • Whisk continuously while adding milk to avoid lumps in the sauce.
  • Use fresh broccoli and good quality cheese to elevate the taste.
  • Reserve a small amount of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta and flour are used)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: broccoli cheddar pasta, cheesy pasta, quick dinner, creamy pasta, vegetarian pasta, kid-friendly meal, weeknight dinner