Creamy Dreamy: The Ultimate Pasta Broccoli Bake Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than this ultimate pasta broccoli bake! This recipe combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a perfect weeknight meal, a potluck favorite, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

## Why You’ll Love This Pasta Broccoli Bake

* **Comforting and Delicious:** This bake is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and slightly crisp broccoli create a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied.
* **Easy to Make:** With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare. You can even prep some of the components in advance to save time.
* **Versatile:** This recipe is easily customizable. You can add your favorite protein, swap out the cheese, or adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will love this bake! The creamy sauce and familiar pasta make it a winner with kids of all ages.
* **Great for Meal Prep:** Pasta broccoli bake reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious pasta broccoli bake:

* **Pasta:** 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape (penne, rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni work well).
* **Broccoli:** 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets.
* **Butter:** 1/2 cup (1 stick), unsalted.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1/2 cup.
* **Milk:** 4 cups (whole milk or 2% milk).
* **Heavy Cream:** 1/2 cup (optional, for extra richness).
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1/2 teaspoon.
* **Nutmeg:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional, adds a warm, subtle flavor).
* **Cheddar Cheese:** 2 cups, shredded (sharp or mild, depending on your preference).
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated.
* **Breadcrumbs:** 1/2 cup (optional, for a crispy topping).
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect pasta broccoli bake:

**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

**Step 2: Steam the Broccoli**

1. While the pasta is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. You can steam them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave them with a little water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Alternatively, you can blanch the broccoli by dropping it into the boiling pasta water for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Then, remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon and immediately plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will help preserve its vibrant green color.
3. Drain the broccoli and set aside.

**Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce**

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken.
4. Stir in the heavy cream (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using).
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

**Step 4: Assemble the Bake**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the bake.
6. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with a tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle them evenly over the cheese.

**Step 5: Bake**

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
2. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

**Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve**

1. Remove the pasta broccoli bake from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and make it easier to slice.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations

* **Add Protein:** For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, ham, bacon, or sausage to the pasta broccoli bake. You can also use plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
* **Swap the Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella. For a spicier kick, add some pepper jack cheese.
* **Add Vegetables:** In addition to broccoli, you can add other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, peas, or mushrooms.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Make it Vegetarian/Vegan**: Substitute the cheese and dairy milk for vegan alternatives. Nutritional yeast can also be added for a cheesy flavor.
* **Make it Ahead:** Assemble the pasta broccoli bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
* **Breadcrumb Topping:** Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese for an extra flavorful topping.

## Serving Suggestions

This pasta broccoli bake is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bake.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Soup:** A light soup, such as tomato soup or vegetable soup, complements the bake nicely.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?**

A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the bake. You may also need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

**Q: Can I make this recipe without cheese?**

A: Yes, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You may need to add a little extra seasoning to compensate for the lack of flavor.

**Q: How do I store leftovers?**

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

**Q: Can I freeze this pasta broccoli bake?**

A: Yes, you can freeze this bake, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, let the bake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

**Q: My sauce is too thick/thin. What can I do?**

A: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.

**Q: Can I use different types of pasta?**

A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Shorter pasta shapes like penne, rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni work best, as they hold the sauce well.

This pasta broccoli bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful broccoli, it’s a dish that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal! Don’t forget to rate and review this recipe once you try it!