Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 250g pasta (penne or fusilli); 300g fresh broccoli, cut into florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore cozy Sundays, especially when it comes to preparing my favorite comfort dish: Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake. The way the creamy sauce envelops each piece of broccoli and pasta warms my soul, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or a quiet night in. With minimal effort, this recipe brings together fresh ingredients that create a delightful creamy texture and rich flavors. It’s truly a joy to whip this up, and it often becomes a requested dish from friends who crave a taste of home.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:55:12.676Z

When I first made this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, it was an experiment that turned into a family favorite. The combination of fresh broccoli and creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that complements the pasta marvelously. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top and baking until golden brown transforms this dish into something truly spectacular.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. I often incorporate leftover vegetables from the fridge, which not only minimizes waste but also adds variety. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrients.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that beautifully complements the crunch of broccoli.
Comfort food that's easy to prepare and always satisfying.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

      

The Role of Broccoli

Broccoli is not just a delightful addition in this creamy pasta bake; it plays a vital role in balancing the richness of the sauce. When cooked until just tender, broccoli retains a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture. The florets also absorb the flavors of the cheese sauce, creating pockets of flavor throughout the dish. Make sure to cut the florets into similar sizes for even cooking, and avoid overcooking them to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.

If you’re looking for a way to sneak in more greens, consider roasting the broccoli instead of boiling it. Toss the florets with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15 minutes. This method enhances their flavor with a nice caramelization, which can add depth to your pasta bake.

Creamy Sauce Techniques

The creamy sauce in this bake is the heart of the dish, and mastering its preparation is key. When melting the cheeses into the heavy cream, keep the heat on medium to avoid curdling. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes glossy and homogeneous. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of pasta cooking water, which will also add flavor and help the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.

For a twist on the flavors, you can incorporate different types of cheese. Fontina or Gruyère can elevate the creaminess and add a nutty flavor. Alternatively, for a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with a mix of half-and-half and Greek yogurt, although this might alter the sauce's consistency.

Baking and Serving Tips

Baking your creamy broccoli pasta is about turning the dish into a comforting casserole. After combining your pasta and sauce, consider sprinkling additional cheese on top for an irresistible cheesy crust. Bake until you see the edges bubbling and the top turning golden brown, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Keep a close watch in the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

To enhance the dish further upon serving, I like to sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done in the oven or microwave; just add a splash of milk to rehydrate the sauce if it thickens. This dish is just as comforting the next day!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a comforting meal everyone will love:

Ingredients

250g pasta (penne or fusilli)
300g fresh broccoli, cut into florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook a delicious creamy pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Combine and Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine the pasta, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese if desired, and bake for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein. Swap out the cheddar for mozzarella for a milder flavor or use a different vegetable based on your preference.

Customizations

This creamy broccoli pasta bake is highly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. If you have leftover cooked chicken or turkey, chop it up and mix it in for added protein. Alternatively, you could swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, kale, or even roasted bell peppers. These substitutions can lend unique flavors and nutrients to the dish, making it your own.

For a heartier version, consider adding beans or lentils. These will not only boost the protein content but also enrich the texture. Simply mix them in while combining the pasta and sauce, and bake them as usual. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can also brighten up the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, it can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for a day before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove the covering, and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before it goes in the oven. This helps it cook evenly.

To freeze, allow the pasta bake to cool completely, then cover it tightly before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra few minutes to the total baking time until warmed through and bubbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well too. Just thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bake beforehand and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for the cheese?

You can find vegetarian cheese options at most grocery stores if you're looking to keep it meat-free.