Quick Broccoli Pasta: Creamy & Cheesy Delight

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of pasta, especially when it’s combined with the vibrant green goodness of broccoli and enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This Quick Broccoli Pasta has quickly become a family favorite in our household. It’s one of those meals that manages to strike the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. My kids love the cheesy flavor, while I appreciate that it’s packed with vegetables. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces medium pasta (such as penne or rotini, approx. 3 cups dry)
• 4 cups broccoli, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth (not low sodium)
• 1 cup light cream
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Boil Water: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add pasta and cook al dente according to package directions.
3. Add Broccoli: For the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli to the pasta water.
4. Drain: Once both the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain well (do not rinse the pasta) and set aside.

Make the Sauce

5. Combine Ingredients: In the same saucepan, combine the chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Mix well.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat while whisking. Allow it to come to a boil, which will help it thicken.

Combine

7. Add Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Toss: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
9. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
10. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your creamy, cheesy broccoli pasta while it’s hot!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 14g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm in large bowls.
• Garnish with additional parmesan cheese or freshly cracked black pepper.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs or nuts.

Additional Tips

1. Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
2. Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
3. Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
4. Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the dish’s freshness.
5. Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat if your family enjoys spice.

Recipe Variations

• Pesto Broccoli Pasta: Replace the cheese sauce with pesto for a flavorful twist.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: Add cooked, diced chicken breast for a heartier meal.
• Baked Version: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan cheese and coconut cream in place of dairy products.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover sauce.
• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Consider a glass of white wine for the adults for a delightful dining experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

• Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking the pasta.

1. What type of pasta works best?

• Medium pasta shapes like penne or rotini hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite.

1. Can I make this gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

1. What if I don’t have light cream?

• You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter.

1. Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately and combine them before serving.

1. How do I make this dish richer?

• Consider adding cream cheese or using full-fat cream instead of light cream.

1. Can I add meat to this dish?

• Yes! Cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon can enhance the flavor and make it more filling.

1. What can I use instead of parmesan?

• Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute, or you can use any hard cheese you like.

1. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

• Yes, it’s a great way to introduce broccoli to kids in a delicious and creamy form!

1. How do I know when the sauce has thickened enough?

• It should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when drizzled.

Conclusion

Quick Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of creamy cheese and nutritious broccoli in a simple and easy-to-make recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet wholesome. With its quick preparation time and minimal cleanup, this pasta dish is bound to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this creamy pasta will leave everyone satisfied and asking for more! Enjoy the blend of flavors and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones.

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