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–+ servings
Broccoli Cheese Pasta

Ultimate Broccoli Cheese Pasta for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Comfort your soul with this easy, delicious Broccoli Cheese Pasta, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine) Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • 4 cups Water Essential for cooking the pasta to perfection.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor beautifully.
For the Broccoli
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Packed with nutrition and a pop of color.
  • 1 teaspoon Olive Oil Helps sauté the garlic and broccoli.
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced Brings a punch of flavor.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Used to make a roux.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Thickens the cheese sauce perfectly.
  • 2 cups Milk Helps create a creamy cheese sauce.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese The star of the dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Mustard Powder Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Enhances taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika Introduces a subtle smokiness.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Sauté Pan
  • medium saucepan
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz of pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a sauté pan. Add 1 minced garlic clove and sauté for 30 seconds. Toss in 2 cups of broccoli florets, seasoning with 1/4 teaspoon salt, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour for 1 minute. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce until melted and creamy. Add the drained pasta and sautéed broccoli to the sauce, mixing well. If too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.
  5. Divide among plates, garnish if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese and avoid overcooking the broccoli for added texture.

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