Creamy Broccoli & Three-Cheese Pasta Bake
This indulgent yet wholesome pasta bake brings together the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese with the added nutrition of tender broccoli. Inspired by a blend of traditional recipes, this dish combines a rich cheese sauce from grated Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella to create a delightful taste experience. The inclusion of broccoli not only enhances the dish's flavor but also packs it with fiber and vitamins, making it a perfect family meal. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your palate!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
rotini pasta or elbow macaroni
8 ounces (uncooked)
broccoli florets
1 cup (cut into bite-sized pieces)
all-purpose flour
1.5 tablespoons (none)
butter
1.5 tablespoons (unsalted)
evaporated milk
12 ounces (combined with 4 oz water)
water
4 ounces (combined with evaporated milk)
dry mustard
0.5 teaspoon (none)
garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon (none)
Parmesan cheese
2 ounces (grated)
cheddar cheese
2 ounces (grated)
mozzarella cheese
2 ounces (grated)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Cook the rotini or elbow macaroni pasta according to package instructions. In the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain the pasta and broccoli thoroughly, then return to the pot.
2
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3
Once the butter is melted, gradually whisk in the flour, stirring consistently for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
4
Slowly add the combined evaporated milk and water to the roux while continuing to whisk. Add the dry mustard and garlic powder.
5
Cook the sauce for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens according to your preference. Remember, the thicker the sauce, the drier the dish will be once baked.
6
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses until melted and fully combined.
7
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the drained pasta and broccoli. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
8
Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this pasta dish?
The dish is called Creamy Broccoli & Three-Cheese Pasta Bake.
What type of pasta is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using either rotini pasta or elbow macaroni.
How much pasta is needed?
You will need 8 ounces of uncooked pasta.
How much broccoli should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of broccoli florets cut into bite-sized pieces.
Which three cheeses are used in the sauce?
The three cheeses used are Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella.
When do I add the broccoli to the cooking process?
Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 4 minutes of cooking.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is categorized as vegetarian.
What ingredients are used to make the roux?
The roux is made using 1.5 tablespoons of butter and 1.5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
What liquid is used for the cheese sauce base?
The base uses 12 ounces of evaporated milk combined with 4 ounces of water.
What seasonings are included in the sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with 0.5 teaspoon of dry mustard and 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How much of each cheese should I grate?
You should grate 2 ounces each of Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese.
How long should I cook the roux?
The roux should be stirred consistently for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth.
How long does it take for the sauce to thicken?
The sauce usually takes between 3 to 5 minutes of constant stirring to thicken.
What is the warning regarding the thickness of the sauce?
If the sauce is made too thick, the dish may become drier once it is baked.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifically lists 1.5 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
When should I add salt and pepper?
Salt and pepper should be added to taste just before serving.
What should I do after draining the pasta and broccoli?
Drain them thoroughly and then return them to the pot.
Is this dish considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is described as an indulgent comfort food similar to macaroni and cheese.
How many ingredients are in this recipe total?
There are a total of 13 ingredients including salt and pepper.
How do I incorporate the cheese into the sauce?
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated cheeses until they are fully melted.
What type of milk is used?
The recipe uses evaporated milk rather than fresh milk.
What are the nutritional benefits mentioned?
The inclusion of broccoli adds fiber and vitamins to the dish.
Can I adjust the seasonings?
Yes, you are encouraged to adjust the seasonings to suit your own palate.
Is this a quick meal option?
Yes, it is identified as an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
How should the pasta and broccoli be coated?
Pour the cheese sauce over them and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
What is the recommended preparation for the cheeses?
All three cheeses (Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella) should be grated.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to cook the pasta according to package instructions, adding broccoli in the last 4 minutes.
Does the recipe mention a specific heat setting for the roux?
The butter should be melted over medium heat.
What is the final step before serving?
The final step is to season the dish to taste with salt and pepper.