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One Pot Broccoli Cheese Pesto Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 10 reviews

A delicious and creamy one-pot broccoli cheese pesto pasta that combines tender pasta and broccoli with a rich blend of cheeses, garlic, and basil pesto for a comforting, flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound short-cut pasta
  • 3 cups chopped broccoli
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded colby jack or cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 3 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup fresh chopped basil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta and Broccoli: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, the short-cut pasta, and chopped broccoli. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until pasta is tender and broccoli is cooked but still crisp. Do not drain the water.
  2. Add Dairy and Seasonings: Stir in 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk. Add 2 cups shredded Colby jack or cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 tablespoons hot sauce, and 3 tablespoons basil pesto. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy and well combined. Remove the pot from the heat.
  3. Finish with Parmesan and Basil: Stir in 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese and 1/3 cup fresh chopped basil. Taste and season with additional kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add up to 1/4 cup of milk or pasta water to thin it slightly.
  4. Serve: Divide the pasta and broccoli mixture evenly between bowls and garnish with extra black pepper if desired. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.

Notes

  • Do not drain the pasta water after cooking as it helps create a creamy sauce with the cheese and cream.
  • Use the type of cheese you prefer, but sharper cheeses will add more flavor.
  • If you want less heat, reduce or omit the hot sauce.
  • Fresh basil adds a bright, fresh flavor; substitute with dried basil if fresh is not available but add less quantity.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/one-pot-broccoli-cheese-pesto-pasta-recipe/