Description
Quick Broccoli Pasta is a creamy and cheesy delight that comes together in just 25 minutes. This comforting dish features perfectly cooked pasta and tender broccoli tossed in a luscious cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and parmesan. Ideal for busy weeknights, it combines wholesome ingredients with simple steps for an easy yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces medium pasta (such as penne or rotini, approximately 3 cups dry)
- 4 cups broccoli, chopped
Sauce
- 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: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. During the last 4 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the chopped broccoli to the boiling water. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together thoroughly without rinsing, and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same saucepan, combine the chicken broth, light cream, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic salt. Whisk the mixture well and heat over medium heat. Bring it to a simmer while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and reaches a gentle boil.
- Combine: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Do not rinse the pasta after draining to retain the sauce’s creaminess and help it cling to the pasta better.
- You can substitute light cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter or richer sauce, but the consistency may vary slightly.
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice subtle heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
