Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe for Dinner

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your weeknight meals with this creamy and delicious Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe. Packed with tender broccoli florets and a rich cheese sauce, this comforting dish is perfect for cheese lovers. Easy to prepare, it's a delightful way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying those cravings for cheesy goodness. Enjoy a plate of this wholesome pasta that combines flavor and nutrition in every bite!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-27T05:25:44.286Z

This Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic comfort food while sneaking in some nutritious veggies.

A Comforting Classic

Pasta has long been a staple in many households, and for good reason. It serves as an ideal base for a variety of sauces, and when combined with fresh vegetables, like broccoli, it becomes both a satisfying and nutritious meal. This Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe takes the classic comfort food and adds a delicious twist, ensuring that your weeknight dinners are anything but boring. The creamy cheese sauce clings beautifully to each piece of pasta, making every bite a delightful experience.

Broccoli is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. This powerhouse vegetable is rich in vitamins K and C, fiber, and various antioxidants, making it a favorable addition to any meal. Including broccoli in pasta dishes is an excellent way to sneak in those beneficial greens, especially for picky eaters. With this recipe, you won’t just be enjoying a creamy dish; you’ll also be benefiting from the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables.

Customize Your Dish

One of the best aspects of this Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or cheese based on your personal preferences. Whether you opt for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options, each variety pairs well with the creamy cheese sauce. Additionally, while cheddar is a popular choice, mixing in some mozzarella or even a bit of blue cheese can elevate the flavor profile, creating a unique dish every time.

You can also enhance the nutritional value of this dish by incorporating other vegetables. Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mix for an extra veggie boost. If you’re looking to add protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be great additions, making this dish a more balanced meal. With just a few tweaks, this recipe can easily adapt to suit the tastes and needs of everyone at the table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (your choice)
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the same pot, add broccoli florets to the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender. Remove and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add cheese, and stir until melted.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Enjoy your creamy broccoli and cheese pasta hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and cheesy pasta dish!

Perfect Pairings

To complement the creamy richness of this Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta, consider pairing it with a light salad or some warm, crusty bread. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast, balancing the heaviness of the pasta. Additionally, a side of garlic bread can enhance the dining experience, making it an even more satisfying meal.

For those who enjoy wine, a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or even a light Pinot Grigio, can beautifully accompany this dish. The acidity in the wine balances the creaminess, enhancing the overall flavors of your meal while keeping things interesting.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, follow the cooking times for the pasta and broccoli closely. Overcooking can lead to mushy textures, which detracts from the overall appeal. For the pasta, aim for al dente; it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the cheese sauce. For the broccoli, two to three minutes is usually sufficient to achieve tenderness while maintaining a nice bite.

Also, do not rush the process of making the cheese sauce. Gradually whisking in the milk and allowing it to thicken properly is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency. If the sauce appears too thick, don't hesitate to add a bit more milk until you reach your desired texture. Following these tips will guarantee a delicious pasta dish every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just ensure it's thawed and drained before adding.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can use mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese that melts well.