If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances cheesy richness with fresh vegetable goodness, this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pasta and vibrant broccoli florets enveloped in a velvety sharp cheddar sauce that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s so comforting yet simple to make, making it my go-to weeknight dinner that never fails to impress the whole family. Whether you want a quick meal or something hearty and satisfying, this recipe brings all the flavors and texture harmony you could ask for.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Five small white bowls are placed on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl holds short elbow macaroni pasta, pale yellow and slightly shiny, filling the bowl fully. Next to it, a bowl contains fresh green broccoli florets with a textured surface. Another bowl is filled with bright orange shredded cheese, soft and slightly fluffy in appearance. A smaller bowl has a soft white creamy cheese or cream, smooth and thick. On the top left, a small bowl holds yellow seasoning powder and white granulated salt mixed together. There is also a small white jug with a creamy white liquid, and a tiny white dish holds a small square of pale butter. The scene is bright and evenly lit, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of creaminess, flavor, and color in this dish. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to contribute both taste and texture, making your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe a standout on the dinner table.

12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and provide the perfect bite every time.
3 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a wonderful, tender crunch and a vibrant green boost.
2 tablespoons butter: Essential for a rich, silky cheese sauce base.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a subtle, savory aroma that elevates the flavor profile.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as the thickening agent, creating that luscious sauce consistency.
2 cups milk (whole or 2%): Creamy and smooth, it balances the intensity of the cheese.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that gives the pasta its signature cheesy depth.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
¼ teaspoon paprika: Provides a hint of smokiness and color boost to the sauce.
½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed): Helps to loosen the sauce perfectly while keeping it creamy.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra cheese: For a fresh pop of color or an extra cheesy finish.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until it’s just tender. For the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, throw in your broccoli florets so they become tender yet still maintain that satisfying bite. Before draining, carefully reserve ½ cup of the pasta water – you’ll need this later to perfect the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Using the same pot makes cleanup a breeze. Melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until it releases an irresistible aroma. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute; this step is crucial to remove the raw flour taste and kickstart the thickening process. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring a smooth mixture free of lumps. Let it gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens just right.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to low and fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Watch as the sauce transforms into a creamy, cheesy dream. Season with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika, which adds a subtle smoky note and warms up the flavor. This combination is what gives the sauce that unforgettable depth every time.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce

Return your drained pasta and broccoli back to the pot with the luscious cheese sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat each piece perfectly. If the sauce feels a bit thick, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your ideal creamy consistency. This trick ensures the sauce clings to every pasta swirl and broccoli floret beautifully.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy!

Your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe is now ready to delight! Make sure to serve it piping hot to enjoy that luxurious, gooey cheese goodness that’s at its peak right out of the pot.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy pasta. The pasta is penne, cooked and mixed with bright green broccoli pieces. The dish is thickly coated with a light yellow creamy cheese sauce. There are small bits of melted cheese on top, adding texture and a slightly browned color. A wooden spoon is placed inside the bowl, resting on the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a fresh garnish like chopped parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also introduces a hint of herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness. For cheese lovers, sprinkling extra cheddar on top right before serving gives an enticing melty finish. These little touches elevate the experience and make your presentation shine.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or some garlic bread takes your meal to the next level. The crunchy textures and zesty contrasts complement the creamy broccoli cheddar pasta perfectly, keeping the overall meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this pasta in individual ramekins baked briefly with an extra cheese crust on top. Alternatively, toss in cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits for added protein and texture. You could even layer the pasta with breadcrumbs in a casserole dish for a comforting baked version that your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it chilled inside a well-sealed dish preserves its freshness and prevents the sauce from drying out.

Freezing

Although freezing creamy pasta dishes can be tricky due to sauce separation, you can freeze this recipe for up to one month by storing it without any garnishes. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. Just be prepared to give it a good stir when reheating.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to maintain that creamy texture and prevent the cheese from becoming grainy or clumping.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives the most authentic flavor, you can mix in mozzarella for extra meltiness or gouda for a smoky touch. Just keep the cheese choices complementary to maintain that creamy texture.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it does not include meat or meat-based products. Feel free to add plant-based proteins if you want a heartier meal.

Can I use non-dairy milk in the sauce?

You can substitute regular milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, but remember that it might slightly affect the creaminess and flavor. Choose those with a neutral taste for the best results.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding cheese, or add a bit more flour at the beginning. To thin it out, stir in reserved pasta water or a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

What pasta shapes work best for this dish?

Penne, rotini, or shells are ideal because their shapes hold the cheese sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with your favorites like fusilli or farfalle — just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings comfort and joy in every forkful. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any night of the week when you want something cozy yet satisfying. I encourage you to try making it soon and watch how it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen as it did in mine.