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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta
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This easy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta is a quick, comforting, and cheesy dinner combining tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and features a rich, satisfying flavor with a nutritious twist from broccoli.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups milk (warm)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. About two minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain both pasta and broccoli and set aside.
  2. Make the cheese sauce base: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux, stirring constantly for about one minute until lightly golden. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
  3. Add cheese and seasonings: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning until perfectly balanced.
  4. Combine pasta, broccoli, and sauce: Return the cooked pasta and broccoli to the pot, tossing everything together until the broccoli cheddar sauce evenly coats each piece. Heat through for a minute or two to blend flavors perfectly.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more flavorful sauce.
  • Do not overcook broccoli to keep a slight crisp and bright color.
  • Whisk butter and flour continuously to make a smooth roux without lumps.
  • Warm milk helps the sauce thicken faster and reduces clumps.
  • Serve immediately as the sauce thickens when cooled.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick cheesy dinner, comfort food, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/broccoli-cheddar-pasta/