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Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta

A comforting and easy pasta dish made with tender broccoli and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or shells
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups milk
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Saucepan or skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli during the last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Serve warm.

Notes

Best served fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.