Creamy Broccoli Penne Pasta Bake with Parmesan Cheese

Cheesy Pasta Casserole with Broccoli and Cheese

Introduction:

Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this comforting Cheesy Pasta Casserole with Broccoli and Cheese, a dish that seamlessly blends the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheese, creating an irresistible meal that will bring joy to your dining table. This Italian-inspired casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, serving as a delightful centerpiece that satisfies both the heart and the palate. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this recipe transforms everyday staples into a gourmet experience, making it an excellent choice for a vegetarian diet.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and quantities used.

Preparation Time

Servings

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water, then introduce the penne pasta. Cook the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture, usually around 8-10 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Once cooked, carefully drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. This will help maintain its firmness. After rinsing, drain again and drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the pasta, tossing it gently to prevent sticking. Set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Cheesy Sauce: In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine the Britannia cream cheese, fresh cream, and milk. Stir the mixture until well blended, ensuring there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining. Next, add in the Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, crushed black pepper, and your choice of herbs (dill or basil). Continue to stir the mixture until it reaches a gentle simmer and the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into a smooth sauce. Remove the saucepan from heat and set it aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In a wok or large skillet, heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the grated garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Carefully add the broccoli florets to the wok, sprinkling a pinch of salt over them. Stir-fry the broccoli for about 3-5 minutes, just until it turns bright green and becomes slightly tender, yet still crisp. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook further when mixed with the pasta and sauce.

4. Combine Ingredients: Once the broccoli is ready, add the cooked penne pasta into the wok with the broccoli and garlic. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the pasta and vegetables, gently tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if desired. Stir-fry the combined dish for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

5. Add the Finishing Touches: Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix well until the cheese melts into the dish, creating a beautifully cheesy finish.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Cheesy Pasta Casserole with Broccoli and Cheese immediately, allowing your guests to indulge in its creamy, cheesy goodness. For a delightful meal, pair it with a refreshing Grilled Winter Vegetable Salad and a luscious No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Dessert to complete the experience.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Pasta Casserole with Broccoli and Cheese is not only a comforting dish, but it also embodies the essence of Italian home cooking, bringing together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for any dinner table. Enjoy every bite of this hearty casserole, and let it bring warmth and joy to your dining experience!