Description of this recipe: This Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. Tender pasta and vibrant broccoli florets are enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that’s both flavorful and incredibly easy to make. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy sauce and familiar flavors make it a hit with kids of all ages.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your preferences by using different cheeses, vegetables, or adding protein.
- Comfort Food: The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender pasta create a comforting and satisfying meal.
- One-Pot (Almost!): Minimize cleanup by using the same pot for cooking the pasta, broccoli, and sauce.
Introduction
In the realm of culinary delights, certain dishes possess an undeniable allure, a comforting embrace that transcends mere sustenance. Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta stands proudly among these culinary champions, a symphony of flavors and textures that captivates the palate and nourishes the soul. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, transformed into a culinary masterpiece through thoughtful preparation and a touch of culinary artistry.
Imagine al dente pasta, cooked to perfection, mingling with vibrant green broccoli florets, each bite bursting with freshness. Now, envision this delightful combination embraced by a luscious, creamy cheese sauce, a velvety blanket of flavor that elevates the entire experience. This is the essence of Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta, a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food.
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it’s an invitation to create a culinary memory, a shared experience that brings joy and satisfaction to all who partake. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, guiding you through each step with clarity and precision.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure. With Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating a moment, a memory, a culinary masterpiece that will be savored and cherished for years to come.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini, approximately 3 cups dry)
- 4 cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup chicken broth (not low sodium for optimal flavor)
- 1 cup light cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 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, adjust according to preference)
- ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by filling a large saucepan with salted water and bringing it to a rolling boil. The salt enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks, so don’t skip this step! Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, indicating that the pasta should be firm and slightly resistant when bitten.
During the last 4 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, add the chopped broccoli florets to the saucepan. This ensures that the broccoli is tender-crisp, retaining its vibrant green color and slightly crunchy texture. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its appeal, so keep a close eye on it.
Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked to perfection, carefully drain them in a colander. Be sure to leave a little pasta water, the starchy water helps the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Do not rinse the pasta and broccoli, as this can wash away some of the flavor and prevent the sauce from adhering properly. Set the drained pasta and broccoli aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In the same saucepan that you used to cook the pasta and broccoli (less cleanup!), whisk together the chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Whisking ensures that the cornstarch is fully dissolved, preventing any lumps from forming in the sauce. The chicken broth provides a savory base for the sauce, while the light cream adds richness and creaminess. The onion powder and garlic salt contribute subtle aromatic flavors that complement the cheese.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking continuously. As the mixture heats up, the cornstarch will begin to thicken the sauce. Continue whisking until the sauce comes to a boil and thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be patient and don’t stop whisking, as the sauce can burn or stick to the bottom of the pan if left unattended.
Step 3: Combine
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. The cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor, while the parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty note. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Broccoli
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, mixing gently to coat. Ensure that every strand of pasta and every floret of broccoli is evenly coated in the luscious cheese sauce.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the cheese already contains some salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Serve immediately, while the sauce is still warm and creamy.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added texture and flavor.
- Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled steak.
Tips:
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli, as it will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
- For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of light cream.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor of the sauce.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
Creamy & Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to please. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable nature, it’s a recipe that you’ll turn to again and again. So, go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it slightly and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will already be partially cooked from being frozen.
Q2: Can I substitute the light cream with something else?
A: Yes, you can substitute the light cream with half-and-half for a lighter option. You can also use heavy cream for a richer sauce. For a dairy-free option, try using unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream, but be aware that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to suit your taste. Some good options include cauliflower, carrots, peas, mushrooms, or spinach. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring that the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and broccoli, then heat the sauce and combine everything together. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
Q5: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor combination. Some good options include Gruyere, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for the best results.
