Gather the following ingredients to get started on this creamy no-boil broccoli cheddar pasta bake:
- 7.5 oz Philadelphia Whipped Chive or Garlic & Herb cream cheese (regular whipped cream cheese works too)
- 12 oz dry pasta (rotini, penne, cellentani, or fusilli)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp, divided)
- 2 3/4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth (regular or low sodium)
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt or salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your creamy no-boil broccoli cheddar pasta bake:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry pasta, chopped broccoli, cream cheese, 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, olive oil, chicken broth, and seasoning salt or salt & pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the heavy cream until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Step 4: Pour the pasta and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pasta mixture.
- Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy and cheesy pasta bake as a delightful main dish or side!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
FAQs
- Can I use different pasta shapes?
- Yes! Rotini, penne, cellentani, or fusilli work great in this recipe.
- What can I substitute for cream cheese?
- You can use any soft cheese like ricotta or goat cheese if you prefer.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- How should I store leftovers?
- Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, you can freeze the pasta bake before or after baking. Just ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
This creamy no-boil broccoli cheddar pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is to prepare. Happy cooking!
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