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: 250g pasta (like penne or fusilli); 300g fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake—it has become a comforting weekend tradition in our household. The creamy sauce combined with tender broccoli and pasta creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. I enjoy experimenting with different cheeses and seasonings to customize it to our taste, making each bake unique. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s an easy way to get my kids to eat their veggies!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:13:08.835Z

When I first concocted this dish, I was searching for a way to sneak more veggies into our dinner rotation without a fuss. The lush creaminess of the sauce paired with the vibrant broccoli transforms the typical pasta bake into something truly special. After some experimentation, I found that a touch of garlic and a hint of nutmeg really elevate the flavor profile, making it irresistible!

Another tip that has made a difference is allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking. This simple step helps the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a perfect consistency. I love serving this dish right out of the oven with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan on top!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that beautifully coats each piece of pasta and broccoli
Nutty flavor from toasted breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch
Versatile recipe that can easily be adapted with different vegetables or proteins

      

Creating the Perfect Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this Broccoli Pasta Bake, and its texture is crucial for the dish's overall success. When cooking the sauce, it's important to heat the olive oil over medium heat before adding the garlic. This method helps to release the garlic's aromatic oils without burning it, which can turn bitter. Stir continuously until the garlic becomes fragrant, around one minute. Once you add the heavy cream, stir constantly to ensure a smooth integration with the melted cheeses, resulting in a glossy, rich coating for your pasta and broccoli.

Nutmeg is a unique addition to the sauce that enhances the creamy flavor. While it may seem unconventional, just a hint brings warmth and depth to the overall dish. Avoid overdoing it, as too much nutmeg can overpower the other flavors. Once the sauce is creamy and has a well-balanced taste, feel free to adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper, if desired, to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Choosing and Preparing the Right Pasta

For this recipe, I recommend using pasta that can hold onto the sauce well, like penne or fusilli. Their ridged surfaces trap the creamy sauce and bits of broccoli, enhancing each forkful's flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try swapping regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be cautious with cooking times, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster than traditional varieties—keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness.

Another great tip is to slightly undercook your pasta, draining it while it's still al dente. The baking process will finish cooking the pasta, preventing it from becoming overly soft. After draining, you can put the pasta back into the pot (off the heat), which will help it stay warm while you prepare the creamy sauce. This simple step ensures your pasta retains a delightful bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broccoli mixture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

250g pasta (like penne or fusilli)
300g fresh broccoli florets
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last two minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combine and Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta and broccoli with the creamy sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and additional cheese.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a side salad!

Pro Tips

To make this dish even healthier, consider adding other vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. You can also substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess.

Adjusting for More Veggies

The beauty of this bake lies in its adaptability. While broccoli is a favorite, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or even roasted bell peppers. To integrate these, simply sauté them briefly before mixing with the creamy sauce—this helps to soften them and enhances their flavors. Using seasonal vegetables not only enriches the dish but also keeps it exciting every time you make it.

When adding veggies, consider adjusting the cooking time slightly to ensure every element is cooked through. For instance, if you choose tough vegetables like carrots, they may require steaming or sautéing for a few minutes before adding them to the baking dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This pasta bake can easily be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy Sundays. If preparing in advance, complete the mixing of pasta, broccoli, and creamy sauce, then transfer to a greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake it, remove the wrap and sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and cheese before baking it straight from the fridge. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to allow for even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce's consistency. This ensures every reheated serving remains creamy and delicious, just like the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickening. However, the sauce may be less creamy.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Just cover with foil and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.