Description
A creamy and comforting pasta dish made with tender broccoli, pasta, and a rich cheddar parmesan cheese sauce. It is quick, satisfying, and perfect for an easy homemade meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions.
- About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the same pot and cook until tender but still bright green.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and cook the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss until everything is evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.
- Serve warm for the best creamy texture.
Notes
- Try other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or monterey jack for a different taste.
- Sautéed mushrooms or spinach make a great hearty addition.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- For a lighter version, reduce the cheddar slightly or replace part of it with cream cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
- You can bake the prepared pasta with extra cheese on top for about 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 651
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 76g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 77mg
