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Broccoli Cheese Pasta

Creamy Broccoli Cheese Pasta for Quick Weeknight Comfort

This Broccoli Cheese Pasta combines creamy cheese, fresh broccoli, and pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine) gluten-free pasta can be substituted if needed
  • 4 cups Water for boiling pasta
  • 1 teaspoon Salt enhances flavor
For the Sauce and Vegetables
  • 2 cups Broccoli florets fresh and vibrant
  • 1 teaspoon Olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons Butter for creamy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour or cornstarch as gluten-free alternative
  • 2 cups Milk whole milk for rich flavor
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese freshly grated recommended
  • 1/2 teaspoon Mustard powder optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika for color and flavor

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook pasta in boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, reserving ½ cup pasta water for later use.
  2. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds, then add broccoli for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender.
  3. Prepare cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk until thickened.
  4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and seasonings until melted and creamy.
  5. Combine cooked pasta and broccoli with cheese sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or toppings if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding milk for creaminess if needed.

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