Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, where tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce come together in a satisfying casserole. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, offering a balance of creamy goodness and wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses creates a luscious, cheesy sauce that coats every bite.
- Nutritious Addition: Broccoli adds color, texture, and nutritional value to the dish, making it a wholesome meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this pasta bake is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Sauce: Add dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce in the skillet, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish warm with a side salad or garlic bread.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the pasta bake, do so before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
This Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture, combined with the crunch of breadcrumbs and cheesy goodness, makes it a comforting choice for any occasion.