Creamy pasta with broccoli, sharp cheddar, fresh herbs, and lemon cooked together in one pot.
# Ingredient list:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (fusilli or penne)
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets (12 oz / 350 g)
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small shallot, finely chopped
05 - 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
06 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
08 - Zest and juice of 1 lemon
→ Dairy
09 - 1 cup (120 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
10 - 1/4 cup (60 g) cream cheese, softened
11 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 - 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth
13 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
→ Seasonings
14 - 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
15 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
16 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic, sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
02 - Add pasta, broccoli florets, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine ingredients.
03 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally for 10 to 12 minutes, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
04 - Stir in milk, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue stirring until cheeses melt and sauce becomes creamy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
05 - Mix in chives, parsley, dill, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
