Save A vibrant, creamy pasta dish featuring broccoli, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, all cooked together in one pot for convenience and maximum flavor.
I first served this dish to my family on a busy weeknight and everyone loved how easy and flavorful it was.
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 saute 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 We often gather around the table sharing this creamy pasta as a family favorite comfort dish.
Notes
For added protein stir in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas at the end. 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 one-pot pasta brings together ease and indulgence in every bite.
Kitchen Guide
- → How is the broccoli prepared in this dish?
Broccoli is cut into small florets and cooked directly in the pot with pasta and broth to retain texture and flavor.
- → What cheeses are used for creaminess?
Sharp cheddar and cream cheese combine to create a smooth, rich sauce complementing the vegetables and pasta.
- → Can fresh herbs be substituted?
Yes, chives, parsley, and dill can be adjusted or swapped based on preference to maintain fresh, herbal notes.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, it contains no meat and relies on dairy and vegetables, making it vegetarian-friendly.
- → How do lemon zest and juice affect the flavor?
They add a bright, citrusy lift that balances the richness of the cheeses and butter in the dish.