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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish combining tender pasta, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekends, this recipe is kid-friendly, nutritious, and versatile, delivering a warm and hearty meal that everyone will love.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Vegetables

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or penne pasta
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. About two minutes before the pasta reaches al dente, add the broccoli florets to the same pot and cook until tender yet still crisp. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  3. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Season the sauce with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your taste.
  4. Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated and heated through. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer, more pronounced flavor in the sauce.
  • Avoid overcooking broccoli to keep its texture and vibrant color intact.
  • Slowly add milk when making the sauce to prevent lumps and achieve a silky smooth texture.
  • Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting quality.
  • Season in layers by tasting and adjusting seasoning before and after adding cheese.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: broccoli cheddar pasta, cheesy pasta, broccoli pasta, comfort food, quick pasta recipe, kid-friendly pasta