Broccoli Cheese Pasta (Print Version)
Tender pasta tossed with vibrant broccoli in a rich, homemade cheese sauce - the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
# Ingredients:
→ For the Pasta
01 -
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
02 -
4 cups water
03 -
1 teaspoon salt
→ For the Broccoli
04 -
2 cups broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
05 -
1 teaspoon olive oil
06 -
1 clove garlic (minced)
07 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
→ For the Cheese Sauce
08 -
2 tablespoons butter
09 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 -
2 cups whole milk
11 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan)
12 -
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
13 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
14 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 -
1/4 teaspoon paprika
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the broccoli florets and season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook for a few minutes until slightly tender and vibrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 -
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for several minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in mustard powder (if using), salt, black pepper, and paprika. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
04 -
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Mix in the sautéed broccoli, ensuring an even distribution. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
05 -
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra cheese, red pepper flakes, or toasted breadcrumbs for additional flavor and texture. Enjoy!
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Grating cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded results in a smoother, creamier sauce consistency.
02 -
Adding pasta water helps loosen the sauce and adds a touch of starchy richness.