If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s ready in just 30 minutes, this Cheese Pasta with broccoli hits all the right notes. It’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor, making it perfect as a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty side dish, or a satisfying meatless meal. The sauce is smooth, cheesy, and slightly tangy with a hint of warmth from the hot sauce — but don’t worry, it’s not spicy!
This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting yet wholesome. The tender pasta swirled in a broccoli-infused cheese sauce will make everyone at the table ask for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights
- Creamy, cheesy, and packed with subtle, savory flavor
- Kid-friendly but satisfying enough for adults
- Can be a main dish or a side dish
- Freezes and reheats beautifully for meal prep
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- Chicken broth – Forms the savory liquid base of the sauce
- Half and half – Adds creamy richness without heaviness
- Chicken bouillon cube – Boosts the umami flavor
- Hot sauce (optional) – Enhances flavor subtly without heat
- Onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley – Classic seasonings that bring depth and aroma
Pasta Ingredients
- Butter – Creates a smooth roux for the sauce
- Flour – Thickens the sauce
- Finely chopped broccoli – Adds color, nutrients, and texture
- Gemelli pasta – Perfect for holding onto the cheesy sauce (or any small pasta: fusilli, rotini, shells, macaroni)
- Cheddar cheese, shredded – Rich, sharp, and melty for that classic cheesy flavor
- Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds umami depth and creaminess
How to Make Cheese Pasta with Broccoli
Step 1: Prep the Sauce
Combine the chicken broth, half and half, bouillon cube, hot sauce, and seasonings in a large measuring cup. Set aside so everything is ready when you cook. Pre-measuring ingredients keeps the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside. If you prefer, you can add the broccoli to the pasta water during the last few minutes instead of the sauce for larger florets.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large, high-walled skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly add the prepared chicken broth mixture in small splashes, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add finely chopped broccoli, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Lower the heat to avoid curdling and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine. The pasta will continue to absorb the flavors and thicken slightly as it sits. Serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Chop broccoli finely to ensure it cooks evenly and blends with the sauce
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor
- Avoid high heat when adding cheese to prevent grainy sauce
- Any small pasta shapes will work if Gemelli isn’t available
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan with high sides
- Saucepan for boiling pasta
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add extra hot sauce or red pepper flakes
- Vegetable Boost: Add finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach
- Different Cheeses: Use Gruyère, Fontina, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile
- Gluten-Free: Substitute pasta with a gluten-free variety and use gluten-free flour for the roux
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy broccoli pasta on its own for a light meal, or pair it with garlic bread, roasted chicken, or a fresh side salad for a complete dinner.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it stores in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, the pasta and sauce freeze well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid separation.
What pasta works best?
Gemelli is ideal, but rotini, fusilli, shells, macaroni, or penne all work beautifully.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The sauce is mild and creamy with just a hint of hot sauce for flavor, not spice.
Can I use milk instead of half and half?
Yes, milk will work, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.
Cheese Pasta with Broccoli (30-Minute One-Pot Recipe)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Savory pasta smothered in a rich broccoli cheese sauce! This 30-minute recipe makes a great side dish or meatless meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s, flavor enhancer)
- ½ teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 ½ cups broccoli, very finely chopped
- ½ lb Gemelli pasta (or Rotini, Fusilli, Medium Shells, Macaroni, Penne)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Ensure broccoli is very finely chopped to cook quickly.
- Combine chicken broth, half and half, ½ bouillon cube, hot sauce, and seasonings in a measuring cup and set aside.
- Boil water for pasta. Salt the water.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth mixture gradually, stirring continuously. Add broccoli. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Partially cover while cooking pasta to al dente. Stir periodically. Drain once cooked.
- Reduce sauce heat to low, stir in cheddar and Parmesan until smooth.
- Add pasta and stir to combine. Serve immediately; sauce will thicken as it stands.
Notes
- Any pasta type works; Gemelli recommended.
- Grate cheese from a block for best melt and flavor.
- For larger broccoli pieces, boil with pasta instead of cooking in sauce.
- Ensure sauce isn’t too hot when adding cheese to prevent graininess.
- Hot sauce is only for flavor enhancement.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
This cheese pasta with broccoli is quick, comforting, and endlessly satisfying. Perfect for weeknights, lunch, or a simple vegetarian dinner, it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy. Give it a try, get creative with mix-ins, and make it your own — this one is sure to become a go-to weeknight favorite.
