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Close-up of a bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Pasta, featuring pasta, broccoli florets, and melted cheddar cheese.

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

A simple and delicious broccoli cheddar pasta recipe.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Pasta such as rotini, penne, or shells
  • 1 tbsp Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Butter
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 lb Broccoli florets
  • 1.5 cups Milk
  • 2 cups Cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in the milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
  6. Serve immediately.

Notes

You can add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.