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 penne pasta; 250g broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I love making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake for my family. It's a comforting dish that's easy to prepare, and it always brings smiles to the dinner table. With the vibrant green of broccoli and the creamy sauce enveloping the pasta, it not only tastes amazing but looks beautiful too. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors that is perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone even noticing!

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:45:34.983Z

When I first made this dish, I wasn't sure how well it would turn out. I had a craving for something creamy and filling, but I also wanted to ensure we were getting our greens. The combination of broccoli with the rich sauce and pasta turned out to be a perfect match!

One tip I've learned is to cook the pasta just shy of al dente, as it continues to cook while baking. This ensures a perfect texture without becoming mushy. We often serve it with a side salad for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that comforts the soul
Packed with healthy broccoli goodness
Easy to prepare, perfect for any day

Cooking the Broccoli Perfectly

When preparing the broccoli for this pasta bake, it’s essential to blanch the florets briefly before mixing them in with the pasta. This means boiling them in salted water for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and tender-crisp. This method not only enhances their color but preserves their nutrients and ensures a delightful texture that won’t turn mushy during baking.

After blanching, immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This simple technique keeps the broccoli vibrant in color, maintaining its crunchiness and preventing it from becoming overcooked in the oven. Remember, the goal is to have broccoli that complements the creamy pasta rather than competes in texture.

Emphasizing the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the star of this dish, providing the rich flavor that brings everything together. When combining the heavy cream and cheeses over medium heat, make sure to stir constantly to avoid scorching. Watching the sauce closely is important; once it becomes glossy and the cheese has fully melted, it’s ready to be mixed with the pasta. If it feels too thick, you can add a splash of pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the sauce. For instance, swapping half of the mozzarella with a sharp cheddar will enhance the flavor profile, giving it more depth. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lighter option, consider using reduced-fat cream or a plant-based alternative, ensuring that you still add a little cornstarch to help thicken.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

300g penne pasta
250g broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Mix everything well and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and add minced garlic. Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once warmed, add half of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan, stirring until melted.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, and creamy sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated.

Bake the Pasta

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, topping with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider finishing with a sprinkle of chili flakes or fresh herbs before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy broccoli pasta bake can easily be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the pasta, broccoli, and sauce mixture up to a day in advance. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.

If you're looking to freeze it, I recommend freezing the unbaked casserole, as the creamy sauce maintains its texture better that way. Wrap the dish tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. To cook from frozen, bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 50-60 minutes, removing the foil during the last 15 minutes for a golden top.

Serving Suggestions

This Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A light, bright salad not only brightens the plate but also offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. You could include ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a delightful combination.

For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some garlic bread. The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta bake well, making each bite a flavorful experience. If you have leftovers, this dish also makes for a fantastic lunch option that can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies like spinach or peas.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great choice for meatless meals.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it ahead of time and bake before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.