Description
Indulge in a delightful bowl of Creamy Vegetarian Broccoli Cheddar Pasta, a comforting dish that brings together tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheddar sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this creamy pasta is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With a depth of flavor from sharp cheddar cheese and optional smoked paprika, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. This recipe allows you to easily customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins like chicken or turkey, making it versatile for any palate. Enjoy this nutritious comfort food in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Pasta (your choice)
- 1 large head of Broccoli (cut into 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
- 8 ounces Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta al dente in salted boiling water.
- Add broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving some starchy water.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until softened. Add garlic and smoked paprika.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add vegetable broth followed by milk.
- Simmer until thickened; stir in mustard and season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat, add cheese until melted, then mix in pasta and broccoli.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. For an extra creamy texture, consider adding cream cheese.