Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta

A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Pasta Dish

Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is the perfect dish for anyone craving a rich, indulgent, and satisfying meal. Combining tender pasta, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce, this recipe delivers both comfort and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – A velvety cheese sauce coats every bite.
• Nutritious & Delicious – Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and a touch of freshness.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Kid-Friendly – A great way to sneak in veggies while keeping the dish ultra-cheesy.
• Customizable – Add protein, switch up the cheese, or use a different pasta shape.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli to the boiling water.
4. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).

3. Combine & Serve

1. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the cheese sauce.
2. Stir well, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
4. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

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Variations & Additions

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
• Different Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
• Make it Healthier: Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat milk.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cheese sauce may become grainy upon reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly. Also, avoid overheating the sauce.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Simply thaw it before adding it to the pasta, or add it directly to the boiling water a couple of minutes before draining.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the sauce well, but you can use any pasta you like.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the cheese sauce separately and store it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before mixing with pasta.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly or add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes! Whole milk is ideal, but you can use 2%, half-and-half, or even unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version.

What can I add to make it spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or stir in a bit of hot sauce for extra heat.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you use vegetarian cheese. Some Parmesan contains animal rennet, so check labels if needed.

What if my sauce is too thin?

Let it simmer for a couple of extra minutes or add a little more cheese to thicken it up.

Can I make this without butter?

You can substitute butter with olive oil, but the flavor and texture may change slightly.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate combination of indulgence and nourishment. With its rich, velvety sauce, tender pasta, and wholesome broccoli, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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