Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice (like penne or fusilli); 200g fresh broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 250ml heavy cream; 150g grated cheddar cheese; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Inspiration

I’ve always loved the comforting taste of a creamy pasta bake, especially on a relaxed Sunday evening. This Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake is my go-to recipe when I want to impress family and friends without spending all afternoon in the kitchen. With tender broccoli florets and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s the ultimate cozy meal that’s perfect for gatherings. Each bite is bursting with flavors that remind me of home, making it a true delight to serve and enjoy.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:19:35.774Z

Cooking this creamy pasta bake brought back so many memories of family dinners, where we would gather around the table and share stories. I discovered that adding a touch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce elevates the flavors in a way that feels almost gourmet. It’s a small detail, but it transforms the dish and makes it stand out.

Using fresh broccoli instead of frozen not only adds brighter color but also retains more nutrients and crunch, making every bite memorable. I love how comforting this dish is, and the leftovers are even better the next day!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta
Nutty flavor from fresh broccoli that brightens the dish
Perfect balance of comfort food and nutrition

Mastering the Pasta and Broccoli

The foundation of this bake lies in the proper cooking of the pasta and broccoli. It's important to cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook during the baking process. This ensures that it maintains the perfect texture and does not become mushy. Adding the broccoli florets during the last two minutes not only saves time but also helps preserve their vibrant green color and nutrients. Look for broccoli that is bright and firm, as this indicates freshness.

To enhance flavor, consider using a mix of pasta types for a pleasing texture contrast. For instance, a combination of penne and fusilli adds visual appeal and allows the creamy sauce to cling more effectively. If fresh broccoli is unavailable, frozen florets can work well, but do not forget to properly defrost and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your dish.

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce plays a pivotal role in bringing the dish together, offering creaminess and depth of flavor. Start with a medium heat to prevent the heavy cream from boiling too rapidly; you want a gentle simmer that encourages a silky texture. Stir frequently to avoid scorching, particularly as you add the cheeses. A good tip is to add the cheeses gradually, ensuring each batch melts completely before adding the next. This creates a cohesive sauce without any lumps.

Nutmeg is a classic addition that enhances the cheese's flavors, especially when combined with the nuttiness of broccoli. However, if you’re not a fan of nutmeg, or if you're cooking for someone who might be sensitive to strong flavors, it's perfectly fine to omit it. Experimenting with different cheese blends, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, can also bring new dimensions to your sauce, so feel free to mix it up according to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

300g pasta of your choice (like penne or fusilli)
200g fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
250ml heavy cream
150g grated cheddar cheese
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect creamy pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine and Bake

Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle with extra cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to mix in cooked bacon or chicken. You can also substitute the cheeses based on your preference.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy broccoli pasta bake is ideal for meal prepping. You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold. It’s a great way to ensure a delicious home-cooked meal is just a few steps away, perfect for busy weeknights.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the texture. Place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If you find the top has lost its crispness, a quick broil for a couple of minutes at the end can help achieve that golden, bubbly finish again.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this pasta bake is a hearty stand-alone dish, pairing it with a fresh green salad can provide a beautiful balance to the richness of the meal. Consider a simple vinaigrette or even a tangy lemon dressing to brighten the flavors. For those who love variety, serving this alongside crusty bread for dipping into the cheesy sauce adds a delightful element to your table.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your add-ins! Consider incorporating cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes to customize the dish to your liking. For a vegetarian option, swap the cheeses for plant-based versions and ensure your pasta is egg-free. The flexibility of this recipe makes it easy to adapt for various dietary preferences while keeping the essence of a classic pasta bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead?

Yes, but fresh broccoli retains better texture and flavor.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that the cheese used is animal rennet-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before, cover, and bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve this with?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy pasta bake.