Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake as a comforting family meal. The combination of creamy sauce, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta is truly unbeatable. I often prepare this dish when I want something hearty yet simple to throw together. The wonderful thing about this recipe is that it marries rich flavors with nutritional goodness, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect way to end a busy week with a delicious and satisfying meal.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:13:37.387Z

Creating my Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake has become a cherished routine in my kitchen. I love how the broccoli adds a vibrant color and a nutritious punch to the dish, while the creamy sauce envelops every bite of pasta. One tip I discovered is that roasting the broccoli slightly before adding it to the bake reveals a deeper flavor, enhancing the dish overall.

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how the simplicity of the ingredients transformed into something so delicious and satisfying. The key is to ensure the pasta is al dente so it holds up during baking, and that's a game-changer for texture!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness that will delight your palate
Nutritious broccoli adds a healthy touch without sacrificing flavor
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy Sundays or weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Choosing the right pasta can significantly impact the texture of your Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake. Penne, with its ridged surface, holds the creamy sauce beautifully, allowing each bite to be rich and flavorful. Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue to cook while baking. If you prefer a different pasta shape, consider fusilli or rigatoni, as they will also work well in capturing the sauce and additional ingredients.

Be cautious not to overcook the pasta. Test it a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to ensure it retains a slight bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the bake. If you're making this ahead of time, undercooking the pasta slightly will ensure the perfect texture once baked.

Elevating the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and using high-quality heavy cream is essential for achieving the desired richness. As it heats, keep an eye on the sauce to prevent it from boiling, which can cause it to separate. Stir continuously as you add in the cheese, allowing it to melt slowly for a silky finish. If you want to lighten it up, you could substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

For added depth, consider including a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of white wine to enhance the flavor profile. These additions can elevate your creamy base and provide a hint of complexity that beautifully complements the broccoli. Always taste the sauce after adding these ingredients to adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Making Ahead and Storing

This recipe is a fantastic make-ahead option for busy families. You can assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance, storing it in the refrigerator covered tightly with foil. Just remember to take it out to come to room temperature before baking, which ensures even cooking. Baking straight from the fridge can extend cooking time, leading to unevenly heated pasta.

If you're looking to store leftovers, allow the bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, for about 20-30 minutes, ensuring it's heated through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake:

For the Bake

12 oz penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 tablespoon olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are prepared and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli and sauté for about 5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium-low until slightly thickened, then stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.

Combine and Bake

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, sautéed broccoli, and creamy sauce until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with extra mozzarella, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly.

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld even more deliciously.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage to the pasta mix. You can also use different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for variation.

Serving Suggestions

While the Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake makes a satisfying main dish, pairing it with a light side salad adds freshness and contrast. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the bake beautifully. Alternatively, garlic bread can also provide a delightful crunch, making your meal feel even more indulgent.

To enhance the nutritional profile, throw in additional veggies such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers into the mix before baking. This not only boosts the vitamins but also adds a splash of color, making the dish visually appealing. Just remember to adjust the quantity of cream to ensure the sauce remains perfectly creamy.

Variations to Try

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage to the pasta mixture before baking. This can turn the dish into a one-pan meal, ideal for those long busy weeks. Make sure the proteins are cooked through before combining them with the sauce and pasta, as they will not cook significantly in the oven.

You can also experiment with different cheeses. Substitute cheddar for a sharper flavor, or add a sprinkle of blue cheese for sophistication. Each cheese brings its unique taste and creaminess to the dish, so don't hesitate to get creative and taste-test your variations.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce seems to separate while making it, it's likely due to heat being too high. Lower the heat and stir continuously to help the cream and cheese incorporate smoothly. If separation happens, try whisking it vigorously off the heat until it comes together again.

Another common issue is a dry bake. To prevent this, ensure you've generously coated the pasta and broccoli with sauce before baking. If you notice the dish looks dry during cooking, a splash of milk or cream can be added to hydrate it during the last few minutes of baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to bake it before serving!

→ Is it possible to freeze the pasta bake?

Absolutely! Just assemble the dish without baking it, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream for a lighter option.

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Sure! This recipe works well with any pasta shape, so feel free to use what you have on hand.