Green Goddess Broccoli Cheddar (Printer-Friendly)

Creamy cheddar and broccoli blend with fresh herbs, cooked together for a flavorful one-pot meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz short pasta (fusilli or penne)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets (12 oz)
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small shallot, finely chopped
05 - 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
06 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
08 - Zest and juice of 1 lemon

→ Dairy

09 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
10 - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
11 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 - 3 cups vegetable broth
13 - 1/2 cup whole milk

→ Seasonings

14 - 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
15 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
16 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

# Method:

01 - Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add shallot and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
02 - Add pasta, broccoli florets, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to mix thoroughly.
03 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
04 - Stir in milk, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue stirring until cheeses melt and sauce becomes creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
05 - Mix in chives, parsley, dill, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Plate while hot, optionally garnishing with extra herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • One pot meal
  • Maximum flavor with minimal cleanup
02 -
  • The dish is vegetarian but can be made vegan by substituting cheeses and butter
  • Use gluten free pasta for gluten free option
03 -
  • Don’t overcook the pasta to keep a perfect al dente texture
  • Gently stir in cheeses off the heat for a creamier sauce
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