Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe is a comforting dish that blends the rich flavors of creamy cheeses with the delightful crunch of fresh broccoli. This recipe offers a tantalizing experience, with each bite melting in your mouth, combining the richness of heavy cream and cheese with the freshness of vegetables. The warmth and comfort reminiscent of home-cooked meals make this pasta a must-try. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a quick and easy, step-by-step recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is both a delight for the taste buds and a lifesaver for your busy schedule. The preparation is straightforward and convenient, making it an ideal choice for families needing a quick meal on the table. With minimal ingredients, it allows you to create a hearty dish that satisfies while also incorporating healthy vegetables. This recipe is perfect for picky eaters, as the creamy, cheesy sauce helps disguise the broccoli so that even kids are excited to eat their greens. Plus, it can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, offering both flavor and efficiency!
Ingredients for Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta
- 2 tbsp Butter: Adding richness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Enhances flavor and allows a healthy cooking medium.
- 1 Yellow Onion (diced): Provides a sweet flavor base when sautéed.
- 500 g Fresh Broccoli (chopped into florets): Packed with nutrients and brings a fresh crunch to the dish.
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced): Adds aromatic flavor and warmth.
- 2 cups Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious texture that envelops the pasta.
- 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully and enhances the creaminess.
- 8 oz Parmesan Cheese (grated): Gives a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1/2 cup Pasta water (reserved): Adjusts the consistency of the sauce.
- 16 oz Ditalini Pasta: The perfect shape for capturing the creamy sauce and broccoli.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Melt Butter and Olive Oil: In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and bubbling. This mixture forms the flavor base for the dish.
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Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.
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Add Broccoli: Toss the chopped broccoli into the skillet, stirring to coat. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant green and tender, adding more complexity to the flavors.
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Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, watching it melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste for a well-rounded flavor profile.
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Cook Ditalini Pasta: Simultaneously, cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help adjust the sauce later.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: After draining the pasta, combine it with the creamy broccoli sauce in the skillet. Gradually add reserved pasta water until you achieve a silky, cohesive sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
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Top with Parmesan: Finish the dish by generously topping it with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Dish out the pasta warm, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta, consider experimenting with a few optional extras. Adding crushed red pepper flakes gives a gentle kick, while a sprinkle of nutmeg can enhance the creaminess. For a fresh twist, mix in lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a bright finish. Don’t forget, you can substitute the broccoli with other greens like spinach or kale, or switch the pasta for whole wheat for a healthier option!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with a simple green salad drizzled with a vinaigrette to balance the richness. A side of garlic bread or warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for additional protein, turning this pasta dish into a hearty feast.
Nutritional Information
While indulgent, this pasta dish can still fit into a balanced diet. Each serving of Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta contains approximately 600 calories. The heavy cream and cheeses can be more indulgent, but it’s loaded with the nutritional benefits of broccoli, bringing essential vitamins and minerals to your meal. If you’re looking for a more nutritious version, consider using semi-skimmed milk and reduced-fat cheeses to lighten the caloric load without sacrificing flavor.
Storing Tips & Variations for Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta
To store your Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the cream may alter in texture upon reheating. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. For variations, try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sun-dried tomatoes to customize the dish to your taste!
Conclusion for Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta
You won’t want to miss out on the comforting richness and vibrant flavors of this Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe. Perfect for busy families, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also a surefire way to please everyone at the table. The combination of creamy cheese and fresh broccoli makes it a delectable meal that will have your loved ones asking for seconds! Try this recipe today, and indulge in the happiness of this delightful pasta dish!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
2. How can I make this recipe lactose-free?
To make it lactose-free, substitute heavy cream with a lactose-free cream and use lactose-free cheese varieties.
3. Can I prepare Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can prep the sauce and pasta ahead of time. Just combine them when ready to eat and reheat gently.
4. What other vegetables can I add to this pasta?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even asparagus for added color and nutrition.
5. How can I spice up this dish?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the sauce while cooking.
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta and discover a dish that brings comfort and joy to your table!
Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and bubbling.
- Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet and sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt.
- Toss the chopped broccoli into the skillet, stirring to coat and sauté for another 5 minutes until vibrant green and tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer gently. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts.
- Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Combine the drained pasta with the creamy broccoli sauce in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water to achieve a silky consistency.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
