Instructions
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Boil the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions, but add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of boiling. Drain well.
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Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty.
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Prepare the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and most of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
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Combine: In a large baking dish, combine the drained pasta, broccoli, and the cheese sauce. Stir in the optional cheese cubes if using.
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Add the Topping: Spread the mixture evenly in the dish and cover with a generous layer of extra shredded cheese.
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Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes. For a darker, crispier top, broil for the final 2–3 minutes until the cheese is deeply golden and bubbly.
Variations
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Chicken Broccoli Bake: Add 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein boost.
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Crunchy Topping: Mix 1/2 cup of Panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese before baking.
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Spicy Twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a subtle heat.
Serving and Storage
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Service: Serve hot as a standalone vegetarian main or as a side dish to roasted meats.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F with a splash of milk or water to keep the sauce from drying out.
The Secret to Perfect Broccoli Pasta
The key to this dish is the dual-texture of the broccoli. By boiling the florets with the pasta, they become tender enough to blend with the sauce, but the subsequent baking process helps them absorb the creamy cheese flavors. Using a mix of shredded cheese for the crust and larger cubes inside ensures a variety of textures—from the crispy, baked top to the soft, stretchy cheese pulls throughout the interior.
