Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe

Name: Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta of choice; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend); 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Bowls

Satisfy your cravings with this creamy and delicious Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe. Bursting with fresh broccoli florets and a rich cheese sauce, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a comforting side. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors, while providing a nutritious twist to your pasta night!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-18T04:16:12.679Z

This dish combines the nutritional benefits of broccoli with the indulgence of cheese, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to quick and satisfying dinners, few things beat a pasta dish. The Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe is not only delicious, but it's also straightforward to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have a comforting meal on the table in no time. Plus, the addition of broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also packs in essential nutrients, adding a healthy twist to your weeknight routine.

Using your favorite type of pasta, whether it's penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, allows you to tailor the dish to your taste. The creamy cheese sauce enveloping the pasta and broccoli creates a rich flavor profile that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. This recipe offers a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it a meal worth savoring.

A Versatile Dish for All Occasions

One of the greatest aspects of this Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta is its versatility. It can be served as the main dish, a hearty side, or even a potluck favorite. Feel free to customize it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or include other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or mozzarella, for a unique twist on flavor.

Moreover, this pasta dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover broccoli and cheese, ensuring nothing goes to waste and making it an eco-friendly choice. Each bite is not only delicious but also a step towards sustainability, as you create meals that reduce food waste and provide nourishment.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing this creamy pasta is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help restore its creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This allows you to enjoy a comforting bowl of broccoli and cheese pasta whenever the craving strikes, without having to start from scratch. Just be sure to defrost it in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare the Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta.

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta of choice
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Broccoli & Cheese Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the last 3 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the broccoli florets. Drain when done.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer until thickened.

Stir in cheese until melted.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.

Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli isn't just a tasty addition to this pasta dish; it also brings numerous health benefits. This green veggie is packed with vitamins C and K, which play essential roles in supporting your immune system and bone health. Additionally, broccoli is high in fiber, aiding digestion and helping you feel full. Incorporating broccoli into your meals is an excellent way to increase your vegetable intake while enjoying a delicious meal.

The antioxidants found in broccoli contribute to overall health and can help reduce inflammation in the body. By making this pasta dish, you're not only treating yourself to a comforting meal but also promoting better health. It's an easy win for anyone looking to eat healthier without compromising on flavor.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta turns out perfectly every time, pay close attention to the cooking times. Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture, so be sure to check for al dente doneness as instructed. Adding the broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking allows it to retain its bright color and crispness, enhancing the overall dish instead of turning it into a soggy mass.

When making the cheese sauce, be patient while melting the cheese and avoid high heat, which can lead to a grainy texture. Stirring continuously will help achieve that perfectly smooth and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and broccoli.