Easy Broccoli Pasta

Give homemade Broccoli Pasta extra yum with this power-packed cheese sauce that has 4 cups of broccoli built in. It is ready in less than 20 minutes, has two veggies in the mix, and is super easy to make. You can even freeze extra portions for future weeks!

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 14

Total Time 24

Servings

Calories 346kcal

Author Amy Palanjian

Equipment

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 cups baby spinach (optional but recommended)
⅓ cup reduced-sodium broth (chicken or vegetable)
⅓ cup heavy cream (or milk)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
pinch garlic powder (optional)
1 pound pasta (such as elbow or other mini pasta shape)
Parmesan cheese, cracked black pepper (optional)

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 4 minutes or until soft when poked with a fork.
Use a fine-mesh strainer or slotted spoon to remove the broccoli and add to a blender. Add the spinach, broth, cream, cheese, butter, salt, and garlic powder if using. Blend until smooth.
Meanwhile, add the pasta to the boiling water from Step 1 and cook according to package directions. Drain and return to the pot.
Stir as much of the cheese sauce into the pasta as you like to coat the pasta thoroughly. Serve warm, topped with parmesan and cracked black pepper if desired.

Video

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Warm for 30-60 seconds in the microwave to serve.
You can make the cheese sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container. Warm for 15-30 seconds in the microwave before stirring into the pasta.
Freeze prepared cheese sauce for up to 6 months. You can do small portions by freezing it in an ice cube tray.
Use whichever kind of pasta your family likes best.
Omit the garlic powder if you're worried the kids may not like it.
Stir the sauce into the pasta right before serving.
Dairy-free: Omit the cheese, use broth instead of milk, and add 1/2 cup white beans. Or use dairy-free cheese, butter, and milk.

Nutrition