Are you craving a comforting, creamy dish that’s easy to make? Look no further! This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta One Pot is the perfect meal that combines rich flavors with simple ingredients. In just a few steps, you’ll create a hearty, cheesy delight that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your heart. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and make dinnertime a breeze!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Dairy and Seasoning
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
In this recipe, I use simple, fresh ingredients. The penne pasta serves as a great base. It holds sauce well and mixes nicely with broccoli. Broccoli florets add color and nutrients. The vegetable broth makes the dish flavorful and comforting.
For the creamy goodness, I use heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese gives a rich taste. The heavy cream helps make the dish smooth. I always add onion and garlic for a tasty aroma. The Dijon mustard adds a bit of zing that brightens the entire dish.
Remember to season with salt and pepper to make everything pop. Lastly, I love garnishing with fresh parsley. It adds a nice touch and a fresh flavor. Overall, these ingredients come together to make a delightful meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
First, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add one small diced onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté these until the onion turns translucent, about three to four minutes. This step builds a great base flavor.
Next, add eight ounces of penne pasta and two cups of broccoli florets to the pot. Pour in four cups of vegetable broth. Stir everything together.
Cooking Process
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook for about ten to twelve minutes. Stir occasionally. You want the pasta to be al dente and the broccoli tender.
After cooking, stir in one cup of heavy cream and one teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste. Then, gradually mix in one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Let it cook for an additional two to three minutes.
Final Touches
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning. If needed, add more salt or pepper.
To serve, scoop the creamy pasta into bowls. Top with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your meal warm!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To stop pasta from sticking, use enough water. Make sure the water is boiling before you add the pasta. Stir the pasta often while it cooks. This keeps it from clumping together. For broccoli, add it to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, it stays tender but not mushy. You want it bright green and crisp.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have heavy cream, try using half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use a plant-based cream if you want a dairy-free option. For pasta, penne works great, but you can use rotini or fusilli. These shapes hold the sauce well and add a fun twist.
Herb and Spice Enhancements
Add herbs for extra taste. Fresh basil or thyme makes the dish pop. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat. This adds a nice kick if you like spice. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
Variations
Cheesy Variations
You can make this dish even cheesier. Try adding different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Mixing in sharp cheddar gives a bold taste. You can also use creamy cheeses like cream cheese for a rich texture. Each cheese adds a unique flavor twist.
Protein Additions
Want to add some protein? You can include cooked chicken or shrimp. Simply add them in during the last few minutes of cooking. For a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas or beans. These options keep your meal filling and tasty.
Gluten-Free or Vegan Adaptations
If you need gluten-free choices, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options. To make it vegan, swap heavy cream for coconut milk. You can also use vegan cheese made from nuts or soy. These swaps keep the creamy texture and flavor without dairy.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your creamy broccoli cheddar pasta, let it cool first. This helps prevent moisture build-up. Use airtight containers for best results. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure the lids fit tightly to keep the food fresh.
Reheating Instructions
You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using a microwave, place the pasta in a bowl and cover it loosely. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. For stovetop, place it in a pot over low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
How Long Does It Last?
In the fridge, your pasta lasts about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. For freezing, use freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta One Pot?
Making this dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need 10 minutes to prep your ingredients. Cooking the pasta and broccoli takes about 15 minutes. This quick time makes it perfect for busy days.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Frozen broccoli is easy and saves time. It cooks quickly and is often pre-washed. However, fresh broccoli may offer a better texture. Frozen can become soft, so be mindful while cooking.
Is this recipe adaptable for a larger group?
You can easily scale this recipe. Just double or triple the ingredients. Keep the same cooking time, but check for doneness. You can also add more cheese for extra creaminess. This makes it easy to feed a crowd!
This blog post covered how to make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta in one pot. We discussed key ingredients, the cooking process, and helpful tips. Creating this dish is fun and easy. You can customize it to your taste, making it perfect for everyone. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly for later. Enjoy your cooking and share this recipe with friends! It’s a delicious way to enjoy pasta and veggies.
