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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta combines tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce for an easy, comforting family dinner. Inspired by the classic flavors of broccoli cheddar soup, this simple broccoli pasta recipe is ready in about 30 minutes and makes a delicious meatless meal for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water if needed
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika optional

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  2. Add the Broccoli: During the last 3–4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Cook until tender-crisp.
  3. Drain: Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.
  4. Make the Sauce Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
  5. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
  6. Season: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika, if using.
  7. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Avoid boiling the sauce.
  8. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  9. Adjust and Serve: Add a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Taste, adjust the seasoning, and serve warm.

Notes

 
Best cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar melts smoothly and provides a stronger flavor.
Frozen broccoli: You can use frozen broccoli; adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken or white beans for a more filling meal.
Sauce consistency: Add a splash of milk when reheating if the sauce becomes too thick.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore the creamy texture.
Crockpot note: This is a stovetop recipe. For the best pasta texture, cook the pasta separately rather than leaving it in a slow cooker for an extended period.
Nutrition: Calories are estimates and may vary with the type of pasta, milk, cheese, and serving size.