Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g penne pasta; 200g broccoli florets; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Collection

I absolutely love this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake! It combines the rich creaminess of a cheesy sauce with the vibrant crunch of fresh broccoli, making it not just comforting but also a bit healthier. Each bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The best part is how easy it is to prepare, perfect for a relaxing family meal. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just for myself, this dish never fails to impress, bringing smiles all around the table.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:07:35.021Z

When I first made this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, I wanted something that would please both my vegetarian friends and my meat-loving family. The outcome was perfect! The creamy cheese sauce clings to the pasta while the broccoli not only adds color but also a delicious crunch. A tip I discovered is to lightly steam the broccoli before mixing it in, which helps retain its vibrant green color and makes it easier to eat.

As I continued to perfect the recipe, I realized that the choice of pasta plays a crucial role. I prefer using penne because its ridges hold the sauce impeccably. Adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top just before baking gives a lovely golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft pasta underneath. Every spoonful bursts with flavor, making this dish a true family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, dreamy texture that envelops each piece of pasta
Packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli for a healthy twist
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy Sunday dinner with family

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

Achieving the perfect creamy texture is essential for this dish. Start by carefully sautéing the garlic until fragrant, about one minute, to prevent it from burning. Adding the cream and vegetable broth together allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A gentle simmer is crucial—if the sauce boils too hard, it may separate, which disrupts that silky consistency. Stir in the cheese gradually for a smooth and glossy sauce.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, consider substituting half of the cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream. This not only reduces fat but also adds a lovely tang. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added while simmering the sauce; just remember to start small, as it can quickly overpower the other flavors.

Elevating Your Broccoli Game

Steaming the broccoli to a bright green hue preserves both its nutrients and its texture. Overcooking can lead to mushy broccoli, so keep an eye on it—just three minutes will provide just enough tenderness while maintaining its crunch. If you're seeking variation, substitute fresh broccoli with cauliflower or even asparagus for a different take.

For added flavor, consider tossing the broccoli with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite herbs before mixing it into the pasta. This adds brightness that complements the richness of the creamy sauce beautifully. If you have leftovers, this pasta bake can make a fantastic lunch option; just reheat it in the oven or microwave to enjoy the creamy goodness again.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Once baked and cooled, portion it into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.

To pump up your bake, consider adding in proteins like cooked chicken, crumbled sausage, or even beans for added heartiness. You can mix different cheeses, too—maybe a bit of mozzarella for extra stretchiness or Parmesan on top for a hint of nuttiness. Adjusting these ingredients could create a dish that’s just as delightful and unique every time you make it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious pasta bake.

For the Pasta Bake

300g penne pasta
200g broccoli florets
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup cream
1 cup vegetable broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Make sure to check your pantry for these ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake.

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the same pot, add the broccoli florets and steam them for about 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add in the cream and vegetable broth, then bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and creamy sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of nutmeg to the creamy sauce. You can also include other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Why Broccoli?

Broccoli is not just a lovely color contrast; it's packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and folate. In this recipe, it serves as a nutritional powerhouse that counters the creamy cheese sauce, balancing richness with health benefits. Leaving the broccoli slightly crunchy also ensures your bake has texture that complements the softness of the pasta and sauce.

Moreover, broccoli can absorb flavors well, so when tossed in the creamy sauce, it picks up the garlic and cheese notes beautifully. I often opt for organic broccoli when available, as it tends to have a fresher taste and better texture, which can elevate the entire dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your creamy broccoli pasta bake with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A light vinaigrette can help cut through the dish's richness, making for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving for a pop of freshness and color.

For an elegant twist, consider garnishing with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest when serving. These additions can elevate the dish and impress even the most discerning guests, transforming a comforting bake into a gourmet experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use any short pasta like fusilli or macaroni.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this pasta bake freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it up for the freezer.

→ Can I make it vegan?

You can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives, like almond milk and vegan cheese.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

For a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of flour to the sautéed garlic before adding the cream and broth.