Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Combining tender pasta with vibrant broccoli florets, coated in a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce, this dish delivers both indulgence and nourishment. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a velvety cheese sauce, cook broccoli to tender perfection, and combine these ingredients with your favorite pasta. The result is a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with cheesy goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Boil Water:
   In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a rolling boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to season the pasta while it cooks.
2. Cook Pasta:
   Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Drain and Reserve:
   Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can help adjust the consistency of the cheese sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

1. Steam or Microwave Broccoli:
   • Steaming Method: Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Cover and steam for 4–5 minutes until tender but still bright green.
   • Microwave Method: Place broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid, and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes.
2. Season:
   Toss the cooked broccoli with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Create a Roux:
   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes. This creates a roux, which thickens the sauce.
2. Add Milk:
   Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Incorporate Cheese:
   Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Season:
   Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce

1. Mix in a Large Skillet or Bowl:
   In a large serving bowl or skillet, combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly.
2. Adjust Consistency:
   If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.

Step 5: Add Optional Toppings

1. Crunchy Topping (Optional):
   For added texture, sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the pasta and broil for 2–3 minutes in the oven until golden brown.
2. Garnish:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Best Accompaniments:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For extra protein, serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Pasta:
   Use pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells to hold the cheese sauce effectively.
2. Cheese Matters:
   Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
3. Perfect Broccoli Texture:
   Avoid overcooking broccoli to maintain a slight crunch and vibrant color.
4. Balancing Flavors:
   Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasonings to suit your preference.
5. Leftover Pasta Water:
   Reserved pasta water is a secret weapon for loosening the sauce without diluting its flavor.

Variations

1. Protein Additions:
   Add cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed shrimp for a heartier dish.
2. Vegetarian Twist:
   Include other veggies like sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or peas.
3. Spicy Kick:
   Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
4. Gluten-Free Version:
   Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Satisfying: Cheesy and creamy, this dish hits all the comfort food notes.
2. Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
3. Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
4. Customizable: Adaptable to dietary preferences and available ingredients.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Pasta is a comforting classic that never fails to impress. Its creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a harmonious dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this cheesy, flavorful delight!

Yield: 5

Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Combining tender pasta with vibrant broccoli florets, coated in a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce, this dish delivers both indulgence and nourishment. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni work well)
• 3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups milk (whole milk recommended)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
   Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
   Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.
   
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
   Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
   
3. Add the Cheese:
   Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
   Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
   
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
   
5. Serve:
   Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with smoked paprika, if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

• Customizable Veggies: Swap broccoli for cauliflower, peas, or spinach to change it up.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Make it Crunchy: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy finish.