Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, creamy, and secretly packed with veggies? This Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is just what you need! It’s ready in under 20 minutes, requires simple ingredients, and delivers on both flavor and nutrition. With three hidden vegetables and two types of cheese, it’s a family-friendly favorite you’ll want to make on repeat.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just craving something cozy, this dish checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🧀 Ultra creamy and cheesy
- 🥦 Packed with veggies (broccoli, onion, and garlic)
- ⏱️ Ready in 20 minutes
- 🍝 Kid-approved and great for picky eaters
- 💡 Easily adaptable with ingredient swaps
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pasta dish:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 500 g fresh broccoli, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 8 oz parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 16 oz ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and fragrant. Season with 1 tsp salt.
2. Add the Broccoli
Stir in chopped broccoli and cook for about 5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Add another 1 tsp of salt.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and mix until fully melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Gently toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheesy broccoli sauce.
6. Finish with Parmesan
Remove from heat. Sprinkle in the grated parmesan and stir until melted and incorporated. Serve warm with extra cheese and cracked black pepper, if desired.
Substitutions & Variations
- Butter → Margarine or vegetable oil
- Olive Oil → Avocado, canola, or sunflower oil
- Yellow Onion → White or red onion
- Broccoli → Frozen florets (thawed and drained)
- Heavy Cream → Half-and-half, evaporated milk, or coconut cream
- Mozzarella → Monterey Jack or provolone
- Parmesan → Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano
- Ditalini Pasta → Elbow, shells, or penne
Equipment You’ll Need
- Knife + Cutting Board
- Large skillet
- Pot for pasta
- Strainer or colander
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or broth.
- Not freezer-friendly due to the cream sauce.
Top 3 Tips for Success
- Cook pasta al dente so it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavor—especially the cheese.
- Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I boil the broccoli with the pasta?
Yes! But in this recipe, sautéing the broccoli in the skillet adds more flavor and keeps it vibrant.
What if I don’t have cream?
Try using a mix of milk and butter, cream cheese, or even a homemade béchamel sauce.
Can I make it vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
What to Serve With Creamy Broccoli Pasta
Pair this pasta with a crisp salad or garlic bread. For dessert, try one of these:
- Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oreo Cheesecake
- Soft Easter Sugar Cookies
- High-Protein Pancake Bowls
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy and Creamy Broccoli Pasta is everything you want in a quick comfort meal—rich, flavorful, and secretly nutritious. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekend lunches. Bonus: it’s totally customizable and always satisfying.