Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta (Comfort Food Made Easy)

When you’re craving comfort food that feels indulgent yet still includes vegetables, Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is the perfect answer. This cozy pasta dish combines tender noodles, vibrant broccoli florets, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce that clings to every bite. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, but satisfying enough to become a repeat family favorite.

Broccoli and cheese is a classic pairing for a reason. The slightly earthy flavor of broccoli balances the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a dish that feels hearty without being overwhelming. When tossed with pasta, this combination becomes a complete, comforting meal that both kids and adults love.

This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients, comes together in under 30 minutes, and can easily be customized with different cheeses, proteins, or seasonings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this creamy broccoli pasta delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Is So Popular

Cheesy broccoli pasta has become a staple in many kitchens because it checks all the right boxes:

• It’s quick and easy
• It uses affordable, everyday ingredients
• It’s vegetarian-friendly
• It feels indulgent while still including vegetables

Unlike heavy baked casseroles, this creamy pasta is made on the stovetop, giving you full control over the texture and richness of the sauce. The broccoli cooks just until tender, staying bright green and slightly crisp, while the cheese sauce remains smooth and creamy.

This dish is also incredibly flexible. You can keep it simple or dress it up depending on what you have on hand and how fancy you want dinner to feel.

Ingredients for Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta

This recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that work together beautifully.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk or half-and-half
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
5. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously until smooth.
6. Simmer sauce for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Lower heat and stir in cheddar cheese and parmesan until melted and creamy.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or red pepper flakes.
9. Add pasta and broccoli to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
10. Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Tender pasta and broccoli tossed in a rich, creamy cheese sauce for an easy and comforting meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: American

Calories: 540

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz pasta penne or rotini
• 3 cups broccoli florets fresh
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper

Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or saucepan
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Cook pasta and broccoli in salted water until tender, then drain.
2. Melt butter in a skillet and sauté garlic briefly.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until thickened.
5. Stir in cheeses until smooth and creamy.
6. Add pasta and broccoli and toss to coat.

Notes

Add protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Pro Tips for Ultra-Creamy Pasta

• Shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce
• Lower the heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess
• Reserve a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed
• Don’t overcook broccoli — bright green is best

Easy Variations to Try

• Chicken Broccoli Pasta – add cooked chicken breast
• Cheesy Broccoli Alfredo – use more parmesan and cream
• Garlic Butter Broccoli Pasta – reduce cheese, add more butter
• Spicy Broccoli Pasta – add chili flakes or hot sauce

What to Serve With Cheesy Broccoli Pasta

This pasta pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Grilled chicken or sausage

It works beautifully as both a main dish and a hearty side.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk
• Sauce will thicken as it cools — loosen as needed

Why This Recipe Works Every Time

The combination of a simple roux, milk, and cheese creates a dependable, silky sauce that coats pasta evenly. Cooking the broccoli with the pasta saves time and ensures perfectly tender florets. The result is a balanced, comforting dish that tastes like classic comfort food but feels homemade and fresh.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or cooking for yourself, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.