Description

This Broccoli Cheese Pasta Dinner is a quick, delicious, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce to create a dish that pleases both kids and adults. Ideal for sneaking in vegetables, it can be served with a light salad or crusty garlic bread and customized with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Broccoli Cheese Pasta Dinner

8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of nutmeg

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water to lightly steam them together. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Remove from heat.
Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, folding gently until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Serve: Spoon the creamy broccoli cheese pasta into bowls or onto plates. Serve immediately with optional sides like a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar for a more flavorful cheese sauce, or try mixing cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a twist.
For a richer sauce, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
Add cooked grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for added protein.
For vegetarian option, ensure the cheese used is free of animal rennet.
Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk.