Broccoli Cheese Pasta Recipe — A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
This creamy broccoli cheese pasta combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, enhances flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (adds a slight smokiness)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil, add broccoli and season with salt; cook until tender. Remove from heat.
- Melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually add milk and cook until thickened. Stir in seasonings and cheese until smooth.
- Mix cooked pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen. Adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or toppings as desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or toasted breadcrumbs before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 650kcal | Carbohydrates: 85g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 25g | Sodium: 900mg