If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug, this Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It perfectly balances tender pasta and vibrant broccoli drowned in a luscious, velvety cheese sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser that impresses without fuss, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s simple ingredients elevated to something truly special, the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dish right comes down to a handful of fantastic ingredients that each bring their own magic. These essentials work together to create the perfect harmony of creamy texture, rich flavor, and fresh color.
- Medium pasta (penne or rotini): About 8 ounces – these shapes are ideal for catching all the cheesy sauce.
- Broccoli, chopped: 4 cups – adds a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant green to brighten the plate.
- Chicken broth: 1 cup – creates a savory, flavorful base for the sauce that keeps it light yet satisfying.
- Light cream: 1 cup – gives the sauce its signature creamy texture without overwhelming heaviness.
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon – the secret thickening agent that makes your sauce silky and clingy.
- Onion powder: Half a teaspoon – adds a subtle sweetness and depth without chunks.
- Garlic salt: Quarter teaspoon – infuses the sauce with gentle garlic warmth and seasoning.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 cup – delivers bold cheesy flavor and vibrant color.
- Parmesan cheese, shredded: Quarter cup – brings salty complexity and richness.
- Salt and pepper: Quarter teaspoon each or to taste – the finishing seasoning to balance all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook it just until al dente, following the package instructions. For the last four minutes of cooking, toss in the chopped broccoli right into the same pot. This way, the broccoli gets perfectly tender while saving time and cleanup. Once ready, drain everything together but don’t rinse – you want the pasta and broccoli to hold onto their starches for the sauce to cling to.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Using the same pot you cooked the pasta in, combine the chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Whisk everything vigorously over medium heat. Watch closely as the mixture heats up, starting to bubble and thicken — this is when the magic happens. The cornstarch activates, turning the liquid into a rich, silky sauce that will coat every bit of pasta.
Step 3: Melt in the Cheese & Combine
Once your sauce is smooth and thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses, one handful at a time, until they melt completely into the sauce. Now, add back your cooked pasta and broccoli. Toss gently but thoroughly so every piece is wrapped in that luxurious cheese sauce. Check and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper – that final touch brings it all together perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor profile. Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few toasted pine nuts will add a lovely richness and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also make perfect companions for soaking up every last bit of that decadent sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in hollowed-out bell peppers or mini bread bowls for individual portions that wow at casual dinners or parties. Alternatively, bake the pasta topped with a sprinkle of extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a bubbly, golden crust that adds irresistible texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making this dish just as tasty the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep it fresh.
Freezing
While cream-based pasta dishes can be tricky to freeze because of texture changes, you can freeze this recipe in a well-sealed container for up to one month if needed. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results, though some ingredients like broccoli might become a bit softer.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the creamy consistency without drying it out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring often, to evenly warm the dish without curdling the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and parmesan provide classic sharpness and richness, you can experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness or gouda for a smoky twist. Just keep the total cheese quantity similar to maintain the sauce’s perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still get a deliciously savory base for the sauce. The cheeses offer plenty of flavor, so the dish stays hearty and satisfying without meat.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Definitely. Most gluten-free pastas work well here, but be mindful of cooking times as they can vary. Cooking broccoli in the same pot still saves time and adds flavor regardless of the pasta you choose.
What’s the best way to get perfectly tender broccoli?
Adding broccoli to the pasta water during the last four minutes of cooking is a simple trick to achieve tender yet crisp florets. Don’t overcook, or the broccoli will turn mushy and lose its vibrant color.
How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still flow smoothly. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer; if it becomes too thick, stirring in a splash of chicken broth or cream will loosen it right up.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe is the kind of meal that makes evenings feel cozy and special with minimal fuss. It’s packed with comfort, brightened by fresh broccoli, and tied together in a luscious cheese sauce that’s downright unforgettable. Give it a try and watch it become the star of your dinner rotation — your family and friends will thank you!
Print
Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and cheesy broccoli pasta recipe combines tender pasta and fresh broccoli with a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a hearty, veggie-packed dish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini, approx 3 cups dry)
- 4 cups broccoli, chopped
Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth (not low sodium)
- 1 cup light cream
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Four minutes before the pasta is done, add the chopped broccoli to the boiling water. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli without rinsing, then set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same saucepan, whisk together the chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking continuously until it boils and the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
- Combine: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Do not rinse pasta and broccoli after draining to help the sauce adhere better.
- You can substitute light cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Ensure to whisk the sauce continuously to avoid lumps forming from the cornstarch.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and creaminess compared to pre-shredded varieties.
