Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love whipping up this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake when I want something comforting yet wholesome. The blend of creamy cheese and tender broccoli over perfectly cooked pasta creates a satisfying dish that pleases everyone at the table. I usually reserve this recipe for family gatherings or lazy weekends when I have a bit more time to indulge in cooking. Plus, it's an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables without anyone noticing. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want it on repeat!
When I first made this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. I love using fresh broccoli that I simply blanch before mixing it in with the creamy sauce. The freshness of the broccoli really shines through, balancing the richness of the cheese. It’s not just about flavor, though; I always make sure to use good quality pasta to hold up against the creamy sauce and provide that bite we all love.
The secret to achieving the perfect creaminess lies in the sauce. I typically start with a roux, and then gradually add milk and cheese, stirring until it’s smooth. This way, the sauce coats the pasta beautifully while ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. Plus, topping it with breadcrumbs gives a lovely crunchy finish that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. Trust me—you won't want to skip this step!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy goodness combined with nutritious broccoli
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any day of the week
- Great for meal prep or family gatherings
Pasta Selection and Cooking Tips
When choosing pasta for this bake, I recommend penne or fusilli as they both hold sauce well and provide a satisfying bite. Cooking the pasta until it’s just al dente is essential; this means it should still have a slight firmness when bitten. If overcooked, it may become mushy after baking. Make sure to keep an eye on the clock and taste test a piece a minute or two before the package time is up. Adding the broccoli during the last 3 minutes of cooking not only softens the florets but also brightens the dish with vibrant color.
Don't forget to season the boiling water generously with salt. This is where your pasta will absorb some flavor, enhancing every bite. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substituting traditional pasta with a gluten-free variety works perfectly; just keep an eye on the cooking time as they often cook faster.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
The creamy sauce is the star of this dish, providing that luscious mouthfeel everyone enjoys. Melt the butter over medium heat, taking care not to let it brown, as this will alter the flavor of the sauce. The flour must be cooked for about a minute to eliminate any raw taste, but stirring constantly is key to avoiding lumps. When whisking in the milk, go gradually to prevent curdling. Watch for the sauce to thicken and bubble; it should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny.
For cheese, while cheddar adds sharpness, mixing mozzarella introduces a lovely stretchiness when baked. If you want to reduce dairy or use a nut-based option, unsweetened almond milk combined with nutritional yeast can create a delicious and satisfying alternative. Just remember that the texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will still shine through.
Topping and Baking Techniques
Adding a breadcrumb topping gives that coveted crunch that contrasts with the creamy pasta below. I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for extra texture, but regular ones are fine too. If you want to elevate the flavor, consider mixing in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano directly into the breadcrumbs. For a more decadent finish, a drizzle of olive oil over the top before baking will encourage browning and add rich flavor.
When baking, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) to help the dish cook evenly. Keep an eye out for bubbling around the edges and that signature golden brown color on top; this typically takes about 20 minutes. To reheat leftovers, pop them in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave them for a quick fix, just remember to add a splash of milk or cream to help refresh the sauce.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake:
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the chopped broccoli in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
Combine and Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta and broccoli with the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked chicken or sausage into the pasta bake. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I find it helps to let the bake cool completely before covering to avoid excess moisture. This dish is versatile: you can also freeze individual portions. Wrap them tightly and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Defrosting in the fridge the night before reheat day makes the process seamless.
When ready to enjoy leftovers, I recommend reheating in the oven rather than the microwave to preserve the crispy topping. Cover the dish with foil and warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta bake can serve as a delightful main course, but pairing it with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread elevates the meal. I often like to serve it alongside a light dressed salad to balance the richness of the dish. A salad with a zesty vinaigrette works particularly well, adding freshness that complements the creamy pasta.
For a complete weekend family meal, consider rounding out the table with a charcuterie platter or simple roasted vegetables to balance flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser that leaves you with a sense of satisfaction, both in terms of flavor and nourishment.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize this recipe based on what you have on hand. For instance, adding sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken can introduce new flavors and protein. If you're feeling adventurous, throw in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrients. Just sauté them quickly with the broccoli to ensure they meld well with your flavors.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap half of the pasta with extra broccoli or cauliflower to reduce carbs while maintaining volume. This not only adds more nutrients but also keeps the dish satisfying without the heaviness.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pasta.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and just pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta of your choice for a gluten-free version.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy pasta bake is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake
I love whipping up this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake when I want something comforting yet wholesome. The blend of creamy cheese and tender broccoli over perfectly cooked pasta creates a satisfying dish that pleases everyone at the table. I usually reserve this recipe for family gatherings or lazy weekends when I have a bit more time to indulge in cooking. Plus, it's an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables without anyone noticing. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want it on repeat!
Created by: Ruby Lawson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the chopped broccoli in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta and broccoli with the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked chicken or sausage into the pasta bake. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 14g