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The heart of any great pasta dish often lies in its sauce, and in the case of Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Pasta, the creamy cheese sauce is what makes it truly irresistible. To achieve a velvety finish, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux. Continue to whisk for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color, which helps eliminate the raw flour taste.

One-Pot Cheesy Pasta with Broccoli

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Pasta! This delightful dish combines creamy cheese, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's a wonderful way to enjoy nutritious ingredients. Learn how to select the best pasta and prepare a velvety cheese sauce that clings to every bite. Elevate your dining experience with this wholesome recipe, perfect for any occasion.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta of your choice (penne, shells, or rotini work well)

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head of broccoli)

4 cups vegetable broth or water

1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

    Add the Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and milk. Stir in the pasta, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

      Cook the Pasta: Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

        Add Broccoli: When there are about 3 minutes left in the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate, ensuring they are submerged.

          Cheesy Goodness: Once the pasta is cooked and the broccoli is tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in both the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

              Enjoy: Serve hot in bowls and dig into this comforting cheesy delight!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | Serves 4-6