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Bowl of cheesy and creamy broccoli pasta with Parmesan and parsley garnish

Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe


  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Cheesy and creamy broccoli pasta with tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce – easy, quick, and family-approved.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (rotini, fusilli, or shells)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Blanch broccoli for 2–3 minutes, drain, and set aside.
  3. In skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to make roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk until thickened.
  5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  6. Add pasta, broccoli, and a splash of pasta water to sauce; stir until coated.
  7. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, whisk in 2 tbsp cottage cheese or cream cheese.
  • Use a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variation.
  • Store in airtight container up to 4 days in fridge.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 48mg