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: 300g pasta (penne or fusilli); 250g fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend); 2 cups milk; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Highlighted under: Home Recipes

I love a hearty pasta bake, especially this creamy broccoli version that’s perfect for Sunday family dinners. The combination of tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. I especially enjoy making this recipe because it’s simple yet feels indulgent. After trying different methods, I found that baking the pasta with a touch of nutmeg enhances the flavors beautifully. It’s great for meal prepping too, as leftovers taste just as good, if not better!

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:09:37.005Z

When I first made this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, I was amazed at how easily all the ingredients came together. The blend of broccoli and pasta, combined with a creamy cheese sauce made from scratch, creates a dish that feels both comforting and wholesome. I remember the first time I served it; my family devoured it and asked for seconds!

What I discovered is that the key lies in not overcooking the broccoli, as it retains my favorite crispness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the sauce. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch on top, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheese sauce that envelops every pasta piece perfectly
Nutty flavor of fresh broccoli that balances the richness
Customizable with your favorite cheeses or protein additions

      

Perfecting Your Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the heart of this pasta bake, and attention to detail ensures a creamy, indulgent outcome. When making the roux with butter and flour, stir continuously to avoid burning; it's ready when it forms a smooth paste and takes on a light golden color. Gradually adding the milk while whisking thoroughly prevents lumps. Aim for a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, for the ideal thickened texture. You'll know it’s ready when the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

Choosing the right blend of cheeses elevates the flavor of your pasta bake. A combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella crafts a rich, melty sauce. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider adding some grated Parmesan for a nutty kick or a touch of goat cheese for tanginess. Just remember, the more flavorful the cheese, the more impactful your dish will be. Feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences for cheese.

Choosing and Preparing Broccoli

Fresh broccoli florets are essential for this dish, providing a vibrant color and nutritional value. When selecting broccoli, look for firm, bright green florets without yellowing. This ensures optimal freshness and flavor. Blanching the broccoli with the pasta not only saves time but also helps to maintain its vibrant green color and crispness, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal. Remember, adding the florets in the last two minutes of pasta cooking is key; overcooking can lead to mushy broccoli that detracts from the texture of the bake.

If you're looking for a quicker prep method or want to customize the recipe, frozen broccoli works just as well. It’s harvested and blanched at its peak freshness, retaining most of its nutrients and flavor. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta, as this can dilute the cheese sauce and make it watery. Strive for a balance of flavors and textures, and your bake will shine.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy broccoli pasta bake is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. After allowing it to cool completely, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to make it ahead for a special occasion, assemble the dish but wait to bake it until just before serving. This keeps the texture fresh. You can also freeze the assembled, uncooked pasta dish for up to two months. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.

When reheating, for the best results, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re short on time, individual portions can be microwaved in a microwave-safe dish for roughly 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Adding a splash of milk right before heating helps restore creaminess and moisture, making your leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
250g fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
2 cups milk
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Add the broccoli florets in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing it to a simmer. Cook until thickened, then add garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheese until melted.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well and transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or bacon to the pasta mixture. You can also substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or peas for a different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, which adds a fresh contrast to the creamy richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette with lemon or balsamic dressing will enhance the overall meal without overpowering it. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to provide some heat, balancing the creamy cheese and broccoli flavors.

For a heartier meal, serve the pasta bake alongside crusty garlic bread. The crunch and flavor of the bread complement the softness of the pasta, making it a comforting and satisfying combination. Additionally, for those who want a protein boost, consider stirring in cooked chicken or sausage into the pasta mix before baking—this will make it even more filling.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach—both can add depth and flavor. If you'd like to incorporate more vegetables, roasted peppers or peas blended in with the broccoli can be a delicious addition, packing even more nutrients into the dish.

You can also add a crispy topping by mixing the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor. Alternatively, topping the bake with crushed tortilla chips or potato chips results in a unique crunch that kids especially enjoy. Experiment with different types of cheese, vegetables, and toppings to make this dish your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ What type of cheese works best?

A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives a great flavor and melting quality. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just thaw and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use gluten-free pasta; the recipe will work just the same.