Save A vibrant, creamy pasta dish featuring broccoli, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, all cooked together in one pot for convenience and maximum flavor.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because of its simplicity and comforting taste.
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 Cooking this meal brings the family together for a cozy dinner full of smiles.
Notes
Swap cheddar for Gruyère or fontina for a different flavor Blend half the broccoli with a splash of broth before adding cheeses for a greener sauce
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 one pot pasta is perfect for busy weeknights and satisfies all ages.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar?
Yes, Gruyère or fontina offer a nice alternative, providing a different but equally delicious flavor.
- → How can I make the sauce greener?
Blend half of the broccoli with some broth before adding cheese to enrich the sauce’s color and texture.
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pasta like fusilli or penne hold the sauce well, delivering a balanced bite with every forkful.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this meal?
Adding cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas at the end boosts protein without altering the core flavors.
- → Can this dish be adapted for gluten-free diets?
Substitute with gluten-free pasta varieties to maintain texture and taste while accommodating dietary needs.
- → How do the fresh herbs influence the flavor?
Chives, parsley, and dill brighten the dish, adding fresh, aromatic notes that complement the creamy cheese base.