Save A vibrant, creamy pasta dish featuring broccoli, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, all cooked together in one pot for convenience and maximum flavor.
I have enjoyed making this dish for my family because it combines the ease of one pot cooking with delicious creamy flavors everyone loves.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) short pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
- Vegetables: 1 large head broccoli cut into small florets (about 350 g / 12 oz), 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 small shallot finely chopped, 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped, zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Dairy: 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 60 g (1/4 cup) cream cheese softened, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 720 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 120 ml (1/2 cup) whole milk
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Step 2:
- Add the pasta broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Step 3:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium low. Simmer uncovered stirring occasionally for 10 12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the milk cream cheese cheddar cheese lemon zest and lemon juice. Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy about 2 3 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add the chives parsley dill salt black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 6:
- Serve hot garnished with extra herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
Save This dish always brings my family together around the table and warms our hearts with its comforting flavors.
Notes
Swap cheddar for Gruyère or fontina for a different flavor. For a greener sauce blend half the broccoli with a splash of broth before adding cheeses.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven Sharp knife Cutting board Wooden spoon or spatula Grater (for cheese and lemon zest)
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cheddar cheese cream cheese butter milk) Wheat (pasta) May contain Gluten (if using regular pasta) Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This easy one pot pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something delicious and fuss free.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different pasta types in this dish?
Yes, short pasta like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni works well to hold the creamy sauce and ingredients together.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Incorporate cream cheese and milk along with melted cheddar to achieve a rich, smooth sauce. Stir continuously until fully blended.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Adding cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas at the end boosts protein without altering the overall flavor profile significantly.
- → What fresh herbs enhance the flavor best?
Chives, parsley, and dill contribute fresh, vibrant notes that complement the broccoli and cheddar perfectly.
- → How do I keep broccoli crisp yet tender?
Adding broccoli florets early during simmering ensures they cook through while retaining a slight bite and bright color.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free variety to maintain texture and taste while avoiding gluten.