Name: Broccoli Cheese Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup (113 g) salted butter; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup); 2 cups (480 g) chicken broth; 1 cup (242 g) half-and-half; 3 teaspoons garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 8 ounces Gemelli pasta; 2 heads fresh broccoli, cut into small florets (about 1 pound); 1 cup (113 g) Muenster cheese, shredded, divided; 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided; 1 cup cooked turkey or beef, crumbled or diced; Chopped parsley, for garnish

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This creamy one-pot Broccoli Cheese Pasta is packed with rich flavors from sharp cheddar and Muenster cheese. With tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a choice of turkey or beef, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that comes together quickly in just one pan.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) salted butter

1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)

2 cups (480 g) chicken broth

1 cup (242 g) half-and-half

3 teaspoons garlic powder

½ teaspoon kosher salt

8 ounces Gemelli pasta

2 heads fresh broccoli, cut into small florets (about 1 pound)

1 cup (113 g) Muenster cheese, shredded, divided

2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided

1 cup cooked turkey or beef, crumbled or diced

Chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Onion:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, until translucent and tender.

Prepare the Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring to combine.

Add garlic powder and kosher salt, mixing well.

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

Bring the mixture to a boil.

Add the Gemelli pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.

Let it simmer for 3 minutes.

After 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets on top of the pasta.

Cover and continue to cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender.

Incorporate the Cheese and Protein:

Remove the skillet from heat.

Stir in ½ cup of shredded Muenster cheese, 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and the cooked turkey or beef until melted and the sauce is creamy.

Serve:

Top the pasta with the remaining Muenster and cheddar cheeses.

Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 510 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a plant-based twist.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Different Cheeses: Swap Muenster with mozzarella or Gouda for a unique flavor.

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is gluten-free.

Lighter Version: Replace half-and-half with whole milk and use less cheese for a lighter dish.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

FAQs

How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of milk or chicken broth while reheating to bring back the creamy consistency.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, I can use frozen broccoli, but I add it a few minutes later since it cooks faster than fresh broccoli.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Gemelli works great, but I can also use fusilli, penne, or rotini for a similar texture and shape.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I can make this ahead, but for the best texture, I store the pasta and sauce separately and mix them together when reheating.

What protein pairs best with this dish?

Both turkey and beef work well, but I also love using shredded rotisserie chicken or even crispy bacon for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a creamy, cheesy sauce, tender broccoli, and hearty pasta. With simple ingredients and a one-pot method, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether I make it as a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for guests, it’s always a hit.

Recipe:

Broccoli Cheese Pasta

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Print Recipe

This creamy one-pot Broccoli Cheese Pasta is packed with rich flavors from sharp cheddar and Muenster cheese, tender pasta, and fresh broccoli. With the addition of turkey or beef, this dish is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Instructions

1. Sauté the Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until translucent.

2. Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring to combine.
Add garlic powder and kosher salt, mixing well.

3. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add Gemelli pasta, ensuring it is submerged.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 3 minutes.
Add broccoli florets on top of the pasta. Cover and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender.

4. Incorporate the Cheese and Protein

Remove the skillet from heat.
Stir in ½ cup Muenster cheese, 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, and cooked turkey or beef until melted and creamy.

5. Serve