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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 40 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender broccoli florets combined with perfectly cooked pasta and enveloped in a rich, cheesy cheddar sauce. This quick and satisfying meal is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something wholesome and delicious in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • 3 cups broccoli florets

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. During the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. Once both are tender, drain them together and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue stirring and cooking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Lower the heat to low and mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, adjusting to taste.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
  7. Serve: Serve the creamy broccoli cheddar pasta hot for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the creamiest, smoothest sauce.
  • Add cooked chicken or bacon to increase protein and make it a heartier meal.
  • If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of reserved pasta cooking water until desired consistency is reached.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-pasta-recipe/