Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta (Easy Comfort Food Favorite)

When you need a cozy, satisfying meal that comes together quickly and pleases everyone at the table, Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is the answer. This recipe combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli florets, and a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce that coats every bite. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights, comforting enough for cold evenings, and delicious enough to serve to guests.

Cheesy broccoli pasta is one of those timeless comfort dishes that never goes out of style. It’s warm, rich, and familiar, yet freshened up with vegetables so it doesn’t feel heavy or boring. Whether you’re feeding kids, cooking for vegetarians, or just craving something creamy and indulgent, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Best of all, it’s made with basic pantry ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes — no complicated steps, no fancy tools, just pure comfort in a bowl.

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Why Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Is Always a Hit

This dish works because it balances flavors and textures beautifully:

• Creamy cheese sauce without being overly heavy
• Tender pasta with just the right bite
• Broccoli that adds freshness and color
• Simple seasoning that lets the cheese shine

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can keep it classic, add protein, or spice it up depending on your mood and what’s in your fridge.

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Comfort Food with a Veggie Boost

Broccoli is the perfect vegetable for creamy pasta dishes. It holds its shape, absorbs flavor, and adds a mild bitterness that balances rich cheese sauce. Plus, it makes the dish feel more wholesome — a comfort food you can feel good about serving regularly.

This recipe is especially great for families because it’s an easy way to get vegetables onto plates without complaints. The creamy cheese sauce makes broccoli irresistible, even for picky eaters.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• Salt, for pasta water

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
   In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute.
3. Add Milk and Cream
   Slowly whisk in milk and cream, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning
   Lower heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg if using.
5. Combine Everything
   Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
6. Serve Warm
   Remove from heat and serve immediately, topped with extra parmesan and black pepper.

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Pro Tips for the Creamiest Pasta

• Shred cheese fresh for best melting
• Don’t boil the sauce after adding cheese
• Salt pasta water generously
• Slightly undercook pasta for best texture
• Reserve a little pasta water if sauce needs thinning

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Easy Variations

Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Add grilled or rotisserie chicken for protein.

Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Pasta
Use all parmesan and extra garlic for bold flavor.

Spicy Broccoli Pasta
Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Baked Cheesy Broccoli Pasta
Transfer to baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve cheesy broccoli pasta with:
• Garlic bread
• Side salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Grilled chicken or shrimp

Perfect for:
• Weeknight dinners
• Meatless meals
• Family gatherings
• Comfort-food cravings

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Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently with a splash of milk
• Not freezer-friendly due to cream sauce

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Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Cheesy and creamy broccoli pasta is:
✔ Quick
✔ Budget-friendly
✔ Family-approved
✔ Vegetarian-friendly
✔ Comforting

It’s one of those recipes you’ll reach for again and again when you need something easy, filling, and guaranteed to please.