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