Name: Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces rotini pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; Olive oil for tossing pasta and broccoli; 4 tablespoons butter; 6 cloves garlic, grated or finely minced; 6 tablespoons flour; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard; 16 ounces heavy cream; 16 ounces half and half; 4 ounces cream cheese; 12 ounces freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided; 1.5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; Kosher salt; Fresh cracked pepper; Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

If you are searching for the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a healthy crunch, the Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe will quickly become your go-to weeknight winner. This dish marries tender rotini pasta and vibrant broccoli florets in a luscious cheddar sauce, all topped with melty sharp cheddar cheese and savory shredded chicken. The result is a hearty pasta bake that feels both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small white bowls and plates with ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, there is a white bowl filled with shredded yellow-orange cheese. Beside it to the right, a small white bowl contains brown Italian seasoning. Below the seasoning, another small white bowl has chopped light yellow garlic. To the right of garlic, a bigger white bowl holds shredded cooked chicken with white and light brown tones. Next to the chicken is a white bowl filled with spiral pasta in a light orange color. Below the pasta, a small white bowl contains white cream cheese with a creamy texture. To the left of the cream cheese is a clear measuring cup filled with a pale liquid labeled half & half. At the bottom left corner, a white bowl contains a heaping of white flour. Above the flour, there is a white bowl with bright green broccoli florets. Near the broccoli, a small dark bowl holds light yellow mustard powder. Above mustard powder, a white plate has three small pale yellow butter pats with a bunch of fresh green parsley next to it. To the left of the butter plate, a clear jar with white heavy cream is also visible. The arrangement is clean and colorful, all placed carefully on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one brings something special, whether it’s the fresh green broccoli adding texture and color or the creamy blend of dairy that creates the sauce’s rich body. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crowd-pleaser.

Rotini pasta (16 ounces): The spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
Broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds vibrant color and a healthy crunch to balance the cheese.
Olive oil: Used to lightly coat the pasta and broccoli for extra flavor and to prevent sticking.
Butter (4 tablespoons): Creates the base for the luscious garlic sauce.
Garlic (6 cloves, finely minced): Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, savory depth.
Flour (6 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): Brings a fragrant herbiness that complements the cheese beautifully.
Ground mustard (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle tang to brighten up the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream (16 ounces): Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
Half and half (16 ounces): Lightens the heaviness to keep the bake balanced.
Cream cheese (4 ounces): Gives a silky, tangy creaminess that elevates the sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (12 ounces, divided): The star ingredient that melts into gooey perfection.
Shredded rotisserie chicken (1.5 cups): Adds hearty protein and a comforting meaty layer.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
Fresh chopped parsley: A bright garnish to finish, adding freshness and color.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees to get it ready for baking later. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until it is just al dente, which means it still has a slight bite. When there are 3 to 4 minutes left on the pasta, add the broccoli florets directly into the boiling water. This timing allows the broccoli to cook perfectly alongside the pasta, preserving its bright green hue and delightful crunch. Once finished, drain the pasta and broccoli, then toss them together with olive oil, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper to coat evenly and enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While your pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the finely minced garlic, flour, Italian seasoning, and ground mustard, stirring constantly. The goal here is to cook the flour mixture without browning the garlic to maintain a mellow, fragrant base. Once combined, gradually whisk in the heavy cream and half and half. Continue stirring on medium-low heat until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and starts to thicken gently. Avoid letting it simmer or boil, as this can cause curdling. Then, stir in the cream cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is melted and seamlessly blended.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, Chicken, and Sauce

Now it is time to bring all the delicious components together. Add the drained pasta, tender broccoli, and shredded rotisserie chicken into the creamy sauce. Toss everything carefully so each piece is evenly coated with the rich, cheesy sauce. Warm everything through on the stove for a few minutes and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste perfectly.

Step 4: Bake to Melty Perfection

Transfer the entire mixture to a 9×13-inch oven-safe baking dish, or an enameled cast iron pan if that’s what you have. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish and bake for about 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese has melted beautifully and the bake is warmed through. This final oven time adds that irresistible golden cheese crust that makes this Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe so comforting and satisfying.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot and watch as everyone dives in for second helpings!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe

A round white pot with two handles holds a dish divided into three main parts: a large portion of pale yellow spiral pasta filling most of the pot, bright green broccoli florets scattered evenly on top of the pasta, and shredded light brown cooked chicken pieces with some orange bits clustered together on one side. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is the classic, simple garnish that brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness. For a little extra flair, you can sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky depth.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta bake pairs beautifully with crisp, simple sides like a mixed green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables that echo the earthy broccoli flavor. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also complement perfectly, soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins and broil just before serving to create a bubbly, golden crust on top. You can even turn it into a layered casserole with alternating layers of pasta and sauce for a show-stopping presentation at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy reheat on busy days when you want comfort food with no fuss.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It stays good in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture and prevent the sauce from separating. If reheating from frozen, allow a bit more time and cover with foil to keep moisture locked in. A quick microwave reheat works in a pinch but may result in a less creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect because it holds sauce well, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or even small shells. Just be sure to cook to al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.

Is it necessary to use both heavy cream and half and half?

The combination balances richness and lightness in the sauce, making it creamy without feeling heavy. You could adjust based on your preference, but using both gives the ideal texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the shredded rotisserie chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or extra broccoli to keep it hearty and delicious.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking or curdling?

Cook the sauce gently over medium-low heat and avoid bringing it to a boil. Stir frequently and add the cheese gradually to ensure a smooth, velvety texture.

Can I prepare this dish in advance before baking?

Yes! You can assemble the entire bake, cover it, and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you are feeding your family on a busy weeknight or preparing for a cozy gathering, this dish brings warmth, comfort, and smiles to the table. Grab your ingredients, crank up the oven, and enjoy every delicious, cheesy bite!