Cheddar Broccoli Noodles is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender pasta and fresh broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a side dish that everyone will love. It is simple to make and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it packs a nutritious punch with broccoli, providing vitamins and minerals, along with the deliciousness of cheese. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Noodles
Ingredients:
- 250 g pasta (elbow, penne, or shells)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, bite-sized)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 1⁄2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Directions:
Cook pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. In the last 2 to 3 minutes, add the broccoli to the same pot. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a paste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Combine: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Serve: Serve warm, optionally topped with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper.
How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Noodles
You can serve Cheddar Broccoli Noodles as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad. For extra flavor, top it with more cheese or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
How to Store Cheddar Broccoli Noodles
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Tips to Make Cheddar Broccoli Noodles
- Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- For a quicker option, use pre-cut frozen broccoli.
- Feel free to mix in other veggies, like spinach or cauliflower, for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can make this dish even richer by adding cooked chicken or bacon bits. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or gouda.
2. Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is convenient and works just as well as fresh.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve.
Cheddar Broccoli Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. In the last 2 to 3 minutes, add the broccoli to the same pot. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a paste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper.
