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A delicious bowl of broccoli and cheese pasta topped with grated cheese

The Best Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Recipe for Dinner

This delicious pasta dish combines tender broccoli with creamy cheese for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounce pasta (penne or rigatoni)
  • 2 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta.
  2. Drain the pasta and broccoli, and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, tossing to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Feel free to add more vegetables or protein to this dish for extra nutrition.