Creamy Broccoli and Cheese Pasta Bake
Budget-friendly and delightful Creamy Broccoli & Cheese Pasta Bake, loaded with veggies and crowned with a crispy golden topping. Kid approved!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package 12 oz (about 340g) of pasta
- 3 cups of broccoli
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 bell pepper
- 1 carrot(s)
- 2 cups of Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups of milk
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of mustard
- salt and pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1/2 cup of Panko bread crumbs
- parsley
Instructions
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PreheatPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare pastaCook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
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SautéIn a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.
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Add minced garlic, diced red and yellow bell peppers, and grated carrot to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Create rouxIn a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
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Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, making sure there are no lumps. Cook and whisk until the sauce thickens.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well.
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CombineCombine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce and the sautéed vegetables. Mix until everything is well coated.
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Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
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Make toppingIn a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta.
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BakeBake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
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Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
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