Save A vibrant, creamy pasta dish featuring broccoli, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, all cooked together in one pot for convenience and maximum flavor.
This dish brings together fresh vegetables and creamy cheese in an easy one pot meal that quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) short pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
- Vegetables: 1 large head broccoli cut into small florets (about 350 g (12 oz)) 2 cloves garlic minced 1 small shallot finely chopped 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Dairy: 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese shredded 60 g (1/4 cup) cream cheese softened 2 tbsp unsalted butter 720 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth 120 ml (1/2 cup) whole milk
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven melt the butter over medium heat Add the shallot and garlic sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent
- Step 2:
- Add the pasta broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot Stir to combine
- Step 3:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium low Simmer uncovered stirring occasionally for 10 12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed
- Step 4:
- Stir in the milk cream cheese cheddar cheese lemon zest and lemon juice Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy about 2 3 minutes
- Step 5:
- Add the chives parsley dill salt black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) Mix well taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Step 6:
- Serve hot garnished with extra herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired
Save This recipe always brings my family to the table happy and satisfied especially on busy weeknights.
Notes
For added protein stir in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas at the end Swap cheddar for Gruyère or fontina for a different flavor Use gluten free pasta to make this dish gluten free For a greener sauce blend half the broccoli with a splash of broth before adding cheeses
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven Sharp knife Cutting board Wooden spoon or spatula Grater (for cheese and lemon zest)
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cheddar cheese cream cheese butter milk) Wheat (pasta) May contain Gluten (if using regular pasta) Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Save This quick and easy one-pot pasta is perfect for flavorful weeknight dinners.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne hold the creamy sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta works perfectly without altering the flavor profile.
- → How do the fresh herbs affect the flavor?
Chives, parsley, and dill add brightness and subtle earthiness, balancing the richness of the cheddar and cream cheese.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this meal?
To boost protein, stir in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas just before serving.
- → What is the role of lemon zest and juice in the dish?
Lemon zest and juice lend a fresh, tangy note that lifts the creamy sauce and enhances overall flavor complexity.