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: 2 cups of pasta (fusilli or penne); 2 cups of broccoli florets; 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup of heavy cream; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake because it brings together comfort and health in a single dish. On weekends, I find myself craving something hearty yet nourishing, and this recipe delivers just that. The creamy sauce envelops tender pasta and vibrant broccoli, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:52:12.590Z

When I first tried making this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake, I wanted to create something that would make my family smile. After experimenting with different cheeses and cream ratios, I found the perfect balance that not only highlights the broccoli but also elevates the entire dish. Using freshly grated cheese made all the difference, giving it a richer flavor and a beautiful golden crust.

One memorable Sunday, I prepared this bake while we enjoyed our favorite family movie. The aroma wafting through the house made our stomachs growl in anticipation! The moment it came out of the oven, we could hardly wait to dig in, and the sighs of delight said it all. It’s the simple joys like these that keep us coming back for more.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta.
Nutritious broccoli adds a delightful crunch and color.
A comforting dish that brings the family together.
Great as leftovers, making busy weekdays easier.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of pasta, broccoli, and a creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition. The pasta acts as the base, offering a hearty foundation, while the broccoli not only adds a nutritional boost but also provides color and texture. The cream not only enriches the dish but also helps to bind the flavors together, ensuring that every bite is as satisfying as the last.

Using high-quality cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan is critical. The mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey texture that's hard to resist, while the Parmesan adds a nutty depth of flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, feel free to use low-fat cream or a plant-based alternative to heavy cream, but keep in mind that this may adjust the creaminess of the sauce.

Baking for the Perfect Finish

Baking your pasta bake is a crucial step, as it allows the flavors to meld and intensify. When transferring the mixture to the baking dish, use a spatula to evenly distribute the ingredients, ensuring that every noodle is coated in the sauce. After topping with remaining cheese, look for that perfect golden-brown color on the surface – this usually takes about 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Using a broiler for a minute or two at the end can create a beautifully charred top, just be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.

If the bake seems watery after baking, it might be due to excess moisture from the broccoli. To fix this in the future, try blanching the broccoli before adding it to the pasta to reduce its water content. Alternatively, throwing in some breadcrumbs on top before baking can absorb extra moisture while adding a crunchy texture.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

2 cups of pasta (fusilli or penne)
2 cups of broccoli florets
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup of heavy cream
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir well.

Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the cream sauce. Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheeses. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy broccoli pasta bake with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding cooked chicken or crisp bacon to the mix. If you like it spicy, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish further.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing for a busy week, this dish is an excellent option for meal prep. You can assemble the pasta bake, cover it well and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen. When ready to cook, simply bake from cold, extending the baking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure it heats through thoroughly.

For freezing, assemble the dish without baking and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking it as per the original instructions. This makes it an ideal dish for family gatherings, as you can have it prepped well in advance.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delightful as-is, feel free to get creative with additional ingredients. Consider adding cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein, or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of tangy flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added before serving to elevate the taste and add freshness.

For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; a pepper jack or feta can introduce new flavor dimensions while keeping the dish exciting. The possibilities are endless, so tailor the recipe to suit your tastes and preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the bake.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream for a lighter version.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This pasta bake tastes great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it right before serving.