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One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

A delightful dish blending creamy cheese, tender pasta, and vibrant broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 3 tbsp butter This will create a rich base with a lovely depth of flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic Aromatic and pungent, these cloves will infuse the dish with warmth.
  • 1/2 shallot shallot Offering a gentle sweetness, shallots complement the garlic beautifully.
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes Just a hint for an added kick, awakening all the flavors.
For the Sauce
  • 2.25 cups chicken broth Adds a savory depth and enhances the overall flavor.
  • 2 cups half and half Creaminess at its finest, this ingredient will make the dish luxurious.
Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups pasta Use your choice of pasta; it will absorb the sauce and flavor beautifully.
  • 3 cups chopped broccoli Fresh and vibrant, these provide color and nutrition.
  • 1 tsp paprika A touch of warmth and color, enhancing both taste and presentation.
  • 1 tsp mustard powder This adds a subtle tang, balancing the creaminess of the dish.
  • 1 tsp oregano Earthy tones that uplift the overall flavor.
  • to taste Salt & pepper Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors.
For Finishing
  • 1 cup cheddar Melts beautifully, providing that iconic cheesy goodness.
  • 1/2 cup parmesan A finishing touch that adds elegance and umami.
  • 1 squeeze lemon Brightens the dish with a zesty punch, balancing the creaminess.
  • to garnish Fresh parsley For garnish, offering freshness and a pop of green.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Mince the garlic and shallot finely, and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic, shallot, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the chicken stock and half and half. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Add the pasta to the pot and reduce heat to medium-low, stirring frequently.
  4. When the pasta is about 3/4 cooked, add the chopped broccoli. Cover the pot and let the broccoli steam, stirring often and adjusting with chicken broth or half and half as needed.
  5. Once the pasta is al dente, turn off the heat and stir in paprika, mustard powder, oregano, and season generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Add cheddar cheese and parmesan until melted into the dish, then finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon.
  7. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and additional parmesan if desired.

Notes

Cheese Choice: Feel free to mix and match your cheese for different flavors! Increase Nutrition: Add other vegetables like spinach or carrots. Make it Vegan: Use plant-based butter, pasta, and cheese alternatives for a vegan version.