Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 pound Pasta of your choice (medium shells, rotini, cavatappi, or penne) Choose good quality dried pasta for best texture.
- 1 large head Broccoli (about 1.5 lbs) Cut into small florets.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Forms the base of the roux.
- 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped About 1 cup, adds aromatic sweetness.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds savory depth.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickening agent for the sauce.
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth Choose low-sodium option for healthier cooking.
- 1.5 cups Milk (whole or 2%) Contributes to the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Enhances flavor without overt mustard taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional) Adds a smoky warmth.
- to taste Salt and Black Pepper For seasoning.
- 8 ounces Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly grated Freshly grated for best melting results.
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese, cut into cubes (optional) For extra creaminess.
For Garnish
- to taste Fresh Parsley, chopped Optional, for garnish.
Method
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- About 3-4 minutes before the pasta is done, add broccoli florets to the boiling water.
- Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and broccoli mixture. Set aside.
Making the Sauce
- Melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic and smoked paprika (if using) and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed mixture and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, followed by milk, until the sauce is smooth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and add sharp cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted.
Combining and Serving
- Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5g
Notes
This dish is best served warm. Ideal for a family meal or dinner with friends. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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