Cheese Pasta
Few dishes capture the comforting allure of creamy, cheesy pasta quite like this Cheese Pasta with Broccoli. Perfectly cooked Gemelli pasta is enveloped in a velvety broccoli cheese sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
With a short prep time of 30 minutes, this dish offers a delightful combination of convenience and taste. It’s versatile enough to serve as a hearty side or a satisfying meatless main course for any occasion.
The secret lies in its robust sauce, crafted with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a medley of herbs. Every bite bursts with richness, balanced by the subtle, fresh flavor of finely chopped broccoli.
Cheese Pasta Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavorful Essentials
- Gemelli Pasta: Twisted perfection, this pasta shape clings effortlessly to the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is a flavor-packed delight.
- Cheddar Cheese: The star of the sauce, lending its sharp, tangy richness for a velvety texture and bold taste.
- Broccoli: Finely chopped for a tender bite, its vibrant flavor and color complement the cheesy goodness beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: A savory base that deepens the sauce’s complexity and enhances the dish’s overall warmth.
- Butter & Flour: The dynamic duo creating a luscious roux, forming the foundation of the silky cheese sauce.
Recipe Tips
- Finely Chop the Broccoli for Even Cooking
For the best texture and flavor, ensure the broccoli is finely chopped before adding it to the sauce. This step allows it to cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the creamy cheese sauce without overpowering the dish. - Gradual Addition of Liquid for a Silky Sauce
When preparing the sauce, add the chicken broth mixture in small splashes while whisking continuously. This technique prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety consistency, making the cheese sauce irresistibly creamy. - Reserve Pasta Water for Adjustments
After draining the pasta, save a small amount of pasta water. This starchy liquid can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, allowing you to achieve the perfect texture for coating every piece of pasta.
What to Serve with Cheese Pasta
- Grilled Chicken Breast
A tender, juicy grilled chicken breast pairs wonderfully with this cheese pasta, adding a protein-rich element to make it a complete meal. The mild smokiness balances the creamy sauce beautifully. - Crisp Garden Salad
A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese pasta. It also adds a satisfying crunch to the meal. - Garlic Bread
Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing for pasta dishes. Its crispy edges and garlicky flavor perfectly complement the creamy, cheesy sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While Gemelli pasta works great for clinging to the sauce, you can substitute it with Fusilli, Penne, or any pasta shape with ridges or twists for similar results. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken bouillon cube to make it a delicious vegetarian-friendly dish. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently and toss it with freshly cooked pasta. - What cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar provides a bold flavor, while Parmesan adds a nutty undertone. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or Gruyere for different taste profiles.
Cheese Pasta
This Cheese Pasta dish features tender pasta enveloped in a creamy broccoli cheese sauce that bursts with flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect option for a satisfying side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
- For the Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce such as Frank’s, non-spicy
- ½ teaspoon each: onion powder garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, mustard powder, dried parsley
- For the Pasta
- ½ pound Gemelli pasta or preferred variety
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups broccoli finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preparation: Finely chop the broccoli to ensure even cooking. Gather and measure all ingredients before starting.
- Combine Liquid Ingredients: In a large spouted measuring cup, mix the chicken broth, half and half, bouillon cube, hot sauce, and seasonings. Set aside.
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add salt (approximately ½ tablespoon kosher salt) and cook the pasta until al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain once done.
- Make the Sauce Base: In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Incorporate Liquids and Broccoli: Slowly pour in the prepared chicken broth mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover partially.
- Combine Cheese and Pasta: Lower the heat to its lowest setting and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until fully melted and incorporated.
- Finish the Dish: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix thoroughly to coat with the sauce. Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes, as the sauce will thicken further and adhere to the pasta.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta immediately and savor its rich, cheesy flavor.
