Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta (penne or fusilli); 250g broccoli, cut into florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love the comfort of a creamy pasta bake, especially on a lazy Sunday. This Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake combines the rich and velvety texture of a cheese sauce with fresh broccoli and perfectly cooked pasta. It's the ideal dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The vibrant green broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritional boost, making this dish as wholesome as it is delicious. Join me in creating this delightful bake that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:31:17.838Z

Making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake was a delightful experience for me. I started by steaming the broccoli just enough to retain its crunch, which added a lovely texture to the dish. Once mixed with the creamy sauce and pasta, I felt the harmony of flavors coming together beautifully. I learned that not overcooking the pasta is key to achieving the perfect bake.

During the baking process, my kitchen was filled with a wonderful aroma that made my family gather around. I also found that adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top just before baking gives a lovely crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess below. This little tip transforms your bake into an impressive dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich cheese sauce complemented by fresh broccoli
Hearty and filling, making it perfect for Sunday dinners
Easy to prepare, perfect for beginners or busy families

      

Elevating Creamy Texture

The key to achieving that luxurious, creamy texture in this pasta bake lies in the cheese sauce. Using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a delightful, stretchy quality. For best results, ensure that the cheeses are freshly grated rather than pre-packaged, as freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly without clumping. Keep the heat at medium when combining the cheese with the cream to prevent it from separating.

If you're looking to add a twist to the cheese sauce, consider mixing in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream for extra tang. This not only enriches the flavor profile but also thickens the sauce. Just be sure to stir continuously until everything melts together perfectly—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch for a silky, glossy finish as an indication that it's ready to mix with the pasta and broccoli.

Broccoli’s Brightness and Nutrition

When preparing the broccoli, remember that the goal is to achieve a vibrant green color while maintaining a slight crispness. Overcooking can lead to mushy florets that lose their nutritional benefits and bright appearance. Aim for steaming for about 3 minutes; testing for doneness is as simple as poking a floret with a fork—if it’s tender yet still has a bite, you’re on the right track. This quick cooking method preserves not only the broccoli's crunchy texture but also its vitamins and minerals.

If you're not a fan of broccoli, this recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted with other vegetables. For instance, blanched spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted bell peppers can be excellent alternatives. These substitutions maintain the dish's creamy essence while allowing for a variety of flavors and colors, ensuring everyone's palate is satisfied.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delightful bake:

Ingredients

200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
250g broccoli, cut into florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In a separate pot, steam the broccoli florets for about 3 minutes until vibrant and slightly tender. Avoid overcooking to retain its crunch.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, mixing until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Ensure everything is well-coated.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes or until bubbling and golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked chicken or bacon before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta bake is perfect for meal prep! After assembling it, you can either bake it right away or refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to avoid drying out. If baking straight from the fridge, you may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, keeping an eye on it until the top is bubbling and golden.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider doing so in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain that desirable cheesy texture, rather than using the microwave, which can lead to a rubbery consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, serve this creamy broccoli pasta bake alongside a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will balance the richness of the pasta dish, making each bite more delightful. You could also add some grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for an added protein boost, creating a heartier dish.

As a fun twist, try sprinkling your favorite herbs on top before serving. Fresh parsley or basil can elevate the flavor profile and add a pop of color. Feel free to incorporate red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure your cheese is from a vegetarian source.

→ Can I substitute cream with milk?

Using milk will result in a less creamy texture, but it can be done if you prefer a lighter version.

→ What can I serve this pasta bake with?

This delicious pasta bake is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.