Introduction
This Cheesy Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a dream come true for comfort food lovers! Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, studded with vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli florets, and finished with a generous sprinkle of melty cheese. It’s pure indulgence in every single bite, making a weeknight feel like a special occasion.
The best part? This incredibly satisfying dish comes together in a flash. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes, with minimal fuss and simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you crave something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, are you ready to transform simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable meal? Get ready to whip up this amazing Cheesy Broccoli Alfredo Pasta. Your taste buds (and your family!) will thank you for it!
Cooking Time & Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Small tip: Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. This is called “mise en place” and it makes everything much smoother!
Ingredients
This recipe makes 4 generous servings.
For the Pasta:
- 340g (12 ounces) short pasta (such as penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt for pasta water
For the Cheesy Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or white cheddar)
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended!)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. About 3-4 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. This saves you an extra pot and helps the broccoli cook perfectly.
Small tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. It’s liquid gold for thinning your sauce later if needed!
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Step 2: Drain and Toss
Once the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is crisp-tender, drain them together thoroughly. Drizzle with 1
