Creamy Broccoli and Cheese Penne Delight

Ingredients

- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or your choice)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
- Once the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Return the pot to the stove over medium heat and add the butter.
- Once melted, add the cream cheese, stirring until it starts to melt and become creamy. Use some reserved pasta water to aid the melting and achieve a smooth sauce consistency.

3. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the pot.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt and coat the pasta and broccoli evenly.
- Gradually mix in some reserved pasta water until the desired creaminess is achieved.

4. Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra shredded cheese if desired.

Preparation & Cooking Times

Prep Time:
PT5M
5 minutes

Cook Time:
PT20M
20 minutes

Total Time

PT25M
25 minutes

Type of Dish

Lunch

Keywords

Penne pasta, broccoli pasta, creamy pasta, cheese sauce, easy lunch, stove-top, quick meal, pasta recipe, family-friendly, vegetarian

Recipe Yield

Feeds 4 adults

Calories

Total: 1080 calories

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