Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta

Name: Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini, approx 3 cups dry); 4 cups broccoli, chopped; 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)

Isabella

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This creamy and cheesy broccoli pasta is the epitome of comfort food. It combines tender pasta with vibrant broccoli and a rich, cheesy sauce that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is creamy, flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this creamy & cheesy broccoli pasta because it’s an all-in-one meal that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. The creamy sauce is rich and full of flavor, balanced by the crisp, fresh broccoli and the perfect blend of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese. I like how the pasta soaks up the sauce, making every bite comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but isn’t overly heavy—just the right amount of creaminess and cheesy goodness!

Ingredients

8 ounces medium pasta (such as penne or rotini, approx 3 cups dry)

4 cups broccoli, chopped

1 cup chicken broth (not low sodium)

1 cup light cream

2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cornstarch

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon garlic salt

¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook al dente according to package directions. In the last 4 minutes of cooking, I add the chopped broccoli to the pasta water. Once everything is cooked, I drain it well but avoid rinsing the pasta. Set aside.

Make the Sauce: In the same saucepan, I combine the chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. I whisk everything together and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. I keep whisking until it comes to a boil and thickens.

Combine: Once the sauce has thickened, I remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese. I mix it until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Then, I toss the pasta and broccoli into the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. I serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

I find this dish holds up well in the fridge for about 2 to 3 days. To store, I transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate them. When I’m ready to reheat, I place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, I can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Related Recipes:

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. I recommend steaming it first before adding it to the pasta to avoid excess moisture. Just make sure it’s well-drained before adding it to the dish.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, I would use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta. The sauce remains the same, so it’s an easy swap.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you like a thicker sauce, I’d recommend adding a little more cornstarch. Mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! You could definitely add vegetables like spinach, peas, or even roasted bell peppers to this dish. I find that spinach works particularly well as it wilts nicely into the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe can be made ahead. I’d suggest preparing the pasta and sauce separately and combining them just before serving. Reheat the dish in a skillet or microwave with a bit of extra cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Conclusion

This creamy & cheesy broccoli pasta is an easy and comforting dish that I always look forward to. It’s perfect for when I want a satisfying meal in no time, and it’s a great way to get in some veggies while indulging in cheesy goodness. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing with others, this pasta never disappoints.