Description
A rich and comforting cheesy and creamy broccoli pasta that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, combining tender broccoli, pasta, and a luscious cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Serve hot, optionally drizzled with olive oil or topped with extra cheese.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly version.
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or mushrooms for added protein and texture.
- Adjust cheese quantities to suit your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg