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: 200g pasta (penne or fusilli); 300g broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

I love making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, especially when I want a comforting dish that brings everyone together. The creamy sauce, blended with tender broccoli and pasta, creates a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to encourage my family to eat more vegetables! It's simple to prepare, and the leftovers are great the next day, making it a perfect choice for a laid-back Sunday.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:29:34.764Z

When I first decided to create this creamy pasta bake, I was looking for a way to sneak in more greens without compromising on flavor. I experimented with different cheeses and cream options until I landed on a combination that made this dish truly irresistible. The broccoli not only adds nutrition but also a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.

One essential tip is to slightly undercook the pasta before mixing it into the sauce and baking. This way, the pasta absorbs the creamy goodness while ensuring that it doesn’t turn mushy in the oven. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy with a rich, cheesy flavor
Packed with nutritious broccoli for a healthy twist
Easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings

      

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente, which means the pasta should still have a slight firmness when bitten. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that won't hold its shape during baking. Always reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining, as this starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.

Timing is key when adding broccoli to the boiling pasta; add it just 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done. This method ensures the broccoli remains vibrant and retains its nutrients while becoming tender enough to blend seamlessly with the pasta and creamy sauce.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up the dish, consider using low-fat cream or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. Just be aware that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust seasoning accordingly. Additionally, if you prefer, nutritional yeast can serve as a great substitute for the Parmesan cheese to maintain a cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Spinach or kale can be fantastic additions, not only boosting the nutritional content but also adding a pop of color. Just make sure to sauté heartier greens like kale a little longer to soften them before mixing them with the sauce. You can incorporate them at the same time as the garlic.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy broccoli pasta bake stores quite well in the fridge for up to three days. To maximize freshness, store it in an airtight container. When reheating, use an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) to allow for even heating. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning before the inside is hot. After 15 minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese bubble and brown slightly.

If you're making this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the entire casserole and assemble it in the baking dish. Just before baking, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a day. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for best results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
300g broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to have everything ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious bake:

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, half of the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, mix the pasta, broccoli, and creamy sauce until well combined. Transfer to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese and Parmesan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.

Let it cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some cooked bacon or chicken to the mix. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.

Getting the Perfect Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and the key to perfecting it is to ensure the cheese melts fully without clumping. Stirring continuously over medium heat helps achieve a velvety consistency. If your sauce doesn't seem creamy enough, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and improve the texture.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the sauce. These herbs complement the cream and broccoli beautifully. A dash of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors significantly, so don't hesitate to experiment with small amounts to find your perfect balance.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake is delicious on its own, but serving it with a side salad can enhance the meal experience. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creaminess. For an added protein boost, grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas tossed in the salad can make for a well-rounded dish.

You can also use this pasta bake as a side dish for a bigger family meal. Pair it with roasted meats such as chicken or pork. Its creamy texture and rich flavors complement savory entrees, adding heartiness to any dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli works best as they hold the creamy sauce well.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if preferred.