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: 8 oz Penne pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cream cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake for my family. It combines tender pasta with vibrant broccoli florets, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible! I find that it’s the perfect dish to unwind with after a busy week, and the leftovers always taste even better the next day. Whether it’s a casual meal or an addition to a festive table, this recipe never fails to delight.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:37:15.691Z

I've been experimenting with pasta bakes for years, and this creamy broccoli version has become my absolute favorite. The secret lies in combining a rich mixture of cheeses, which not only enhances the flavor but also creates a velvety texture that clings perfectly to the pasta. I typically use a mix of cheddar and cream cheese, but feel free to swap in your favorites!

To avoid sogginess, I always ensure to slightly undercook the pasta before mixing it with the creamy sauce. This way, it absorbs just the right amount of moisture during baking while retaining that delightful al dente texture.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce with a cheesy pull
Vibrant pops of green from fresh broccoli
Comfort food that brings the family together

      

Elevating Your Pasta Bake

When crafting this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, the foundation is the sauce. The combination of cream cheese and both cheddar and Parmesan creates a luxurious texture that enhances the dish's overall flavor. The creaminess is key; it should be smooth and glossy, ensuring it clings to every piece of pasta and broccoli. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually whisk in a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency before mixing it with the pasta and broccoli.

Additionally, don't underestimate the importance of seasoning. The garlic and Italian seasoning are essential to balance the rich, creamy sauce. However, feel free to adjust these to suit your taste. A dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a little heat, while fresh herbs like basil or parsley added just before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.

Personalizing Your Dish

One of the fantastic aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily substitute the penne pasta with any shape you prefer or have on hand. Fusilli, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta all work well—just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Additionally, for a plant-based version, try using vegan cheese alternatives and a non-dairy cream cheese, which will still give you that creamy texture without the dairy.

You can also boost nutrition by adding other vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, or even peas can be mixed in with the broccoli, enhancing not only the flavor but also the vibrant colors. These additions can be blanched along with the broccoli or sautéed quickly, ensuring they retain their nutrients and texture in the bake.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz Penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Make sure everything is ready before you begin the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy pasta bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot enough for baking.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta for 6-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

In the same pot, blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside with the pasta.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Stir continuously until melted and creamy. Season with garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, and creamy sauce. Mix until evenly coated.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy pasta bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. After assembling the dish but before baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even tastier dish when baked. Simply remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven to bring it to room temperature before baking, which can help prevent an overly cold center.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked pasta bake. Wrap it securely in foil and place it in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it as per the original instructions, increasing the baking time slightly if it's still cold from being in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake at the table, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake. You might also pair it with garlic bread, which is perfect for wiping up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some additional fresh herbs, such as chopped chives or parsley, over the top just before serving. This not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich and cheesy pasta beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just ensure the cheese you use is rennet-free.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter option.