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: 300g pasta (penne or rigatoni); 300g fresh broccoli florets; 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded; 100g parmesan cheese, grated; 400ml heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Breadcrumbs for topping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake! It combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with rich, creamy pasta to create a dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Each bite is filled with cheesy goodness, and the crunchy topping adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce. Whether you're looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a special Sunday treat, this pasta bake is sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:13:12.439Z

When I first attempted this pasta bake, I was amazed at how the flavors meld together. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender broccoli creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. I found that using a mix of cheeses, like mozzarella and parmesan, gives it a richer taste and better texture. I always bake it until the top is golden brown for that perfect finish.

One of my favorite tips is to slightly undercook the pasta before mixing it with the sauce. This way, as it bakes, the pasta absorbs the creamy goodness while maintaining its texture. It turns out to be a hearty meal that feels indulgent yet is quite straightforward to prepare.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheese sauce that envelopes every bite
Nutritious broccoli adds a vibrant color and flavor
Perfectly crunchy topping for added texture

      

The Role of Ingredients

The combination of mozzarella and parmesan in this pasta bake is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy texture. Mozzarella lends its wonderful stretchiness, which can make each forkful delightfully gooey. Meanwhile, the sharpness of parmesan adds depth to the flavor profile, creating a well-rounded cheese sauce that complements the earthy notes of broccoli. This balance ensures that every bite is both creamy and flavorful.

Incorporating fresh broccoli florets not only boosts the nutritional value of the dish, but also enhances its visual appeal. The bright green color contrasts beautifully against the creamy sauce, making the dish more inviting. For a deeper flavor, consider lightly steaming the broccoli before adding it to the mix; this method sharpens its inherent sweetness and ensures it remains vibrant and tender after baking.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When it comes to baking this pasta dish, consistency is key. Preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) ensures that it’s evenly heated before the pasta bake goes in. This helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely without overcooking the pasta, which could become mushy. After about 25 minutes, check for a golden top. If the breadcrumbs aren’t browned to your liking, consider broiling for an additional 2-3 minutes while keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

For those who love a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. This subtle heat can elevate the dish without overwhelming the creamy flavors. Additionally, if you want to make this dish vegetarian-friendly, just ensure your cheeses and any additional toppings align with those dietary restrictions, particularly checking for rennet in cheeses.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy broccoli pasta bake is an excellent meal prep dish. You can assemble the entire recipe a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just ensure to cover it tightly with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it into the oven to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta bake can also be frozen; simply wrap portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. You might want to add a splash of cream or milk before reheating to keep it from drying out.

Ingredients

300g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
300g fresh broccoli florets
200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
100g parmesan cheese, grated
400ml heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, add salt and pepper, and stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well until everything is coated evenly.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits to the mixture before baking!

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich, creamy flavors of the bake without competing for attention. Alternatively, serving it alongside garlic bread can offer a delightful crunch that enhances the dining experience.

For added protein, consider topping each portion with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. Both options meld well with the creamy cheese sauce and provide a satisfying heft to the meal, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to mix in other vegetables to personalize this dish. Spinach, zucchini, or even roasted bell peppers can add variety, making it a delightful way to use up whatever you have on hand. Just ensure that if you incorporate softer veggies like spinach, you reduce their cooking time to keep their texture intact when baked.

If you prefer a bit more zing, adding a squeeze of lemon juice when mixing the pasta and cheese sauce can brighten the flavors of the dish. This means you get a more vibrant taste profile without losing the comforting essence of the creamy bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before adding it to the pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

This pasta bake pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I substitute the cream for something lighter?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version, though it may alter the taste slightly.