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Creamy Vegetarian Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

Creamy Vegetarian Broccoli Cheddar Pasta
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If you’re craving a comforting yet nutritious meal, look no further than this Creamy Vegetarian Broccoli Cheddar Pasta. This delightful dish combines tender pasta with vibrant broccoli florets, enveloped in a rich and creamy cheese sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, it’s a quick and easy recipe that takes just around 30 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (medium shells, rotini, cavatappi, or penne)
  • 1 large head of broccoli (cut into small florets)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1.5 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
  • Optional: 4 ounces cream cheese (for extra creaminess), fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. In the last few minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to blanch.
  2. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and broccoli.
  3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion until softened. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk continuously for a minute to form a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and milk until smooth; simmer until thickened.
  6. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. If using cream cheese, add it now.
  7. Combine the drained pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://chopandcooktips.com/creamy-vegetarian-broccoli-cheddar-pasta/