Description
This creamy and cheesy broccoli pasta combines tender pasta with fresh broccoli and a luscious, cheesy sauce that is rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Ideal for a weeknight meal, this dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. With sharp cheddar and parmesan, it’s a satisfying pasta dish that will please your whole family.
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente. In the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli. Drain the pasta and broccoli, but do not rinse. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same saucepan, whisk together chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking until it comes to a boil and thickens.
- Combine: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the pasta and broccoli to the sauce, mixing to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
You can substitute frozen broccoli, just steam it before adding.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
To thicken the sauce further, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir into the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: Approx 350 kcal per serving
