Comfort food doesn’t always have to feel heavy or complicated. Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta proves that a dish can be rich, satisfying, and packed with vegetables all at once. With tender pasta coated in a smooth cheese sauce and studded with vibrant broccoli florets, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment.

This broccoli pasta recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meatless dinners, or when you want something cozy without committing to a long cooking process. It uses simple ingredients, comes together quickly, and delivers familiar flavors that appeal to both adults and kids.

Why Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Is a Weeknight Favorite

Broccoli and cheese are a classic pairing, but when combined with pasta, they become a complete, comforting meal. Cooking the broccoli until just tender ensures it keeps its color and bite, while the cheese sauce coats every piece of pasta evenly.

This recipe works so well because:

It’s ready in under 30 minutes
Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
Works as a main dish or hearty side
Easily customizable with protein
Perfect for vegetarian meals

Whether served on its own or alongside roasted meats, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll return to often.

Ingredients for Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Short pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells)
Fresh broccoli florets
Unsalted butter
Garlic, minced
All-purpose flour
Milk
Heavy cream
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt
Black pepper

Instructions

Cook the pasta and broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions, adding broccoli florets during the final 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Add liquids
Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
Add cheese
Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Combine
Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Season and serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Salt the pasta water generously for maximum flavor
Grate cheese fresh to avoid grainy sauce
Don’t overcook broccoli to maintain color and texture
Thin sauce gently with reserved pasta water if needed

Variations and Add-Ins

Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Add cooked chicken breast
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake: Transfer to a baking dish and broil with extra cheese
Spicy Broccoli Pasta: Add crushed red pepper flakes
Lemon Broccoli Pasta: Finish with lemon zest

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs well with:

Garlic bread
Simple green salad
Roasted tomatoes

It also works as a potluck dish or family-style meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheat gently with a splash of milk
Not recommended for freezing due to cheese texture

Why This Recipe Works

The roux-based sauce ensures a stable, creamy texture, while combining milk and cream prevents the dish from feeling overly heavy. Cooking broccoli directly with the pasta maximizes efficiency and flavor absorption.

A Comforting Classic with a Veggie Boost

Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big comfort. It’s approachable, reliable, and endlessly adaptable — the kind of recipe that fits effortlessly into any weekly meal plan.