Creamy Broccoli and Tomato Penne Bake
This Creamy Broccoli and Tomato Penne Bake is a delightful and wholesome dish combining al dente penne pasta, fresh broccoli florets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a blend of rich cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner or a comforting meal with friends, it's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The layers of flavors and textures come together harmoniously, making it a favorite for both adults and children alike. Serve it hot and watch everyone come back for seconds!
N/A
Servings
147.5
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Penne Pasta
1/2 lb (Cooked according to package instructions)
Broccoli Florets
2 1/2 cups (Fresh, added to boiling water during the last few minutes of pasta cooking)
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (Used for sautéing)
Garlic Cloves
3 (Sliced)
Cherry Tomatoes
1 pint (Halved (optional for extra flavor))
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Freshly ground, to taste)
Provolone Cheese
2 ounces (Shredded)
Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (Grated)
Instructions
1
Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. During the last 2-5 minutes of the cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
2
Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a small cup of pasta water to use later if desired.
3
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sliced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it turns golden and fragrant.
4
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the tomato skins begin to blister and soften.
5
Combine the drained penne and broccoli with the garlic and tomato mixture in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, stir well, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the provolone and Parmesan cheeses until melted and well-distributed. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
7
Transfer the pasta mixture to a large serving bowl and toss gently to mix. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
21g
Carbs
5.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Broccoli and Tomato Penne Bake?
It is a wholesome and delightful dish that combines al dente penne pasta, fresh broccoli florets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a rich blend of cheeses.
What kind of pasta is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for penne pasta, which holds the sauce and ingredients well.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses pasta, vegetables, and cheese without any meat products.
How do I prepare the broccoli for this dish?
The fresh broccoli florets should be added to the boiling pasta water during the last 2 to 5 minutes of the pasta's cooking time.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for one pint of cherry tomatoes, which can be halved for extra flavor.
Which cheeses are used in this pasta bake?
The dish features a combination of shredded provolone cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 147.5 calories.
What is the protein content of this meal?
This dish provides 5.5g of protein per serving.
How much fat is in the Creamy Broccoli and Tomato Penne Bake?
There are 5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
The recipe contains 21 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The recipe requires 3 garlic cloves that should be sliced before sautéing.
What is the purpose of reserving pasta water?
The reserved pasta water is used to achieve a creamy consistency if the pasta mixture seems too dry after adding the cheese.
How do I cook the cherry tomatoes?
Sauté them in olive oil for 1-2 minutes until the skins begin to blister and soften.
What kind of oil is best for this recipe?
One tablespoon of olive oil is used for sautéing the garlic and tomatoes.
Can I add extra seasoning?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper, but you can adjust these to taste.
How long should I sauté the garlic?
Sauté the sliced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes golden and fragrant.
Is this recipe easy to make for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and involves simple steps like boiling pasta and sautéing vegetables.
What is the texture of the final dish?
The dish is creamy and harmonious, featuring a mix of soft tomatoes, tender broccoli, and melted cheese over al dente pasta.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 9 ingredients in this recipe.
What should I do if the cheese isn't melting properly?
Stir the cheeses into the pasta mixture immediately after removing the skillet from the heat while the ingredients are still hot.
Is this a good meal for kids?
Yes, the flavors and textures are designed to be a favorite for both adults and children.
Can I substitute the provolone cheese?
While the recipe calls for provolone, you could likely substitute it with mozzarella or another mild melting cheese.
Do I need a large skillet for this?
Yes, a large skillet is needed to combine the pasta, broccoli, garlic, and tomato mixture.
What are the main flavor profiles?
The main flavors come from sautéed garlic, blistered cherry tomatoes, and the rich, salty notes of Parmesan and Provolone.
How do I serve this dish?
Transfer the mixture to a large serving bowl, toss gently, and serve immediately while hot.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh is recommended, you can use frozen broccoli; just adjust the boiling time to ensure it doesn't become too mushy.
How do I ensure the pasta is al dente?
Follow the package instructions for the penne and ensure you don't overcook it during the final mixing phase.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, while the recipe focuses on broccoli and tomatoes, you can easily add spinach or bell peppers for more variety.
What makes the dish 'creamy' without heavy cream?
The creaminess comes from the combination of melted Provolone cheese and the starchy reserved pasta water.
Should I peel the garlic?
Yes, the garlic cloves should be peeled and then sliced before being sautéed in the olive oil.