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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 4 reviews

This comforting Broccoli Cheddar Pasta recipe combines tender gluten-free pasta and vibrant broccoli in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish is naturally gluten-free and packed with cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 10 ounces gluten free pasta
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons gluten free all purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables

  • 4 cups chopped broccoli (mixed sizes)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Dairy & Liquids

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup chicken or veggie broth
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten free pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  2. Cook broccoli: During the final 90 seconds of pasta cooking, add the chopped broccoli to the boiling water with the pasta. Let it blanch to tender crisp. Drain pasta and broccoli and set aside.
  3. Sauté garlic: In another pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just golden.
  4. Whisk in flour: Add the gluten-free all-purpose flour to the butter and garlic mixture, whisking vigorously to combine and form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  5. Add spices and liquids: Mix in the onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, reduce the heat to low, then slowly whisk in the half and half to create a smooth sauce base.
  6. Add cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese into the sauce. Continue whisking off the heat until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.
  7. Combine and serve: Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Garnish with extra black pepper if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Make sure to add broccoli towards the end of pasta cooking to ensure it remains tender but crisp.
  • Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor impact in the cheese sauce.
  • Gluten free pasta and flour are used to keep this recipe gluten free.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/broccoli-cheddar-pasta-recipe/