Save Pin 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 has become a favorite in my home for busy weeknights when I want something hearty yet quick.
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 Pin This dish always brings my family together around the table sharing stories and laughter.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 435 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 56 g Protein 18 g per serving
Save Pin This one pot pasta is both comforting and quick to prepare making it perfect for any day of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, short pasta like penne or fusilli work well, but you can substitute with any pasta that cooks evenly.
- → How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish gluten-free without altering the flavors.
- → What herbs are best for this dish?
Fresh chives, parsley, and dill provide a bright, fresh herbaceous note that complements the creamy cheddar sauce.
- → Can I add protein to this meal?
Yes, stir in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas at the end for extra protein.
- → How can I adjust the flavor of the cheese sauce?
Swap cheddar for Gruyère or fontina for a milder or nuttier taste, and adjust seasonings to your preference.
- → Is it possible to create a greener sauce?
Blending half the broccoli with some broth before adding the cheeses intensifies the green color and the vegetable flavor.