Baked Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Recipe
This Baked Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is a rich and satisfying Italian-inspired dish, perfect for a hearty dinner or a special weeknight treat. With tender penne pasta enveloped in a creamy bechamel sauce, roasted broccoli, and melted mozzarella cheese, this recipe delivers a deliciously comforting meal. The addition of Italian seasonings and a hint of nutmeg creates a flavor profile that’s both indulgent and savory, making it a delightful option for vegetarians looking to enjoy a high-protein meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: High-Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 350 grams |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 6 cloves |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Red chili flakes | 1 teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Whole wheat flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Fresh cream | 1/4 cup |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling 500ml of water in a stockpot. Once boiling, add the penne pasta along with a teaspoon of salt. Let the pasta cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to prevent overcooking. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking, then set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Bechamel Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, salt, black pepper powder, nutmeg, and milk until the flour is fully dissolved into the milk. Pour this mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, add the fresh cream, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and lump-free. Once done, turn off the heat and set aside.
Step 3: Roast the Broccoli
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 1-2 minutes. Add the broccoli florets along with a teaspoon of salt. Roast the broccoli for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, and black pepper powder, giving everything a good stir.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked pasta to the roasted broccoli and garlic mixture. Pour in the prepared bechamel sauce and stir until the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
Transfer the pasta mixture into a ceramic baking dish. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, with a golden brown top.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This Baked Cheesy Broccoli Pasta pairs wonderfully with a refreshing watermelon panzanella salad and a glass of wine for a complete and satisfying dinner. Alternatively, it can be packed into lunchboxes for a delicious and filling meal on the go.
This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the comforting appeal of pasta and cheese, making it a go-to meal for those looking to enjoy a hearty vegetarian dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even as a dish for potlucks, this Baked Cheesy Broccoli Pasta will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
