Description
This Broccoli Cheese Pasta is a quick and comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce with tender sautéed broccoli. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a great weeknight meal that combines savory cheddar cheese flavors with nutritious broccoli for a satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Ingredients
Units
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Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water with 1 teaspoon salt to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
- Sauté the Broccoli: Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and 1/4 teaspoon salt, stirring occasionally. Cook until the broccoli is slightly tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour continuously for about one minute to form a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in 2 cups milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, approximately 3-5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Broccoli with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly. Stir in the sautéed broccoli, ensuring even distribution throughout the pasta.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the broccoli cheese pasta warm. Enjoy this creamy and flavorful meal immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
- You can substitute milk with a lactose-free or plant-based milk for a lactose-free version.
- Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese taste.
- If you like, top with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan before serving.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and pasta.
