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One pot creamy broccoli cheddar pasta with tender pasta shells and chopped broccoli in a cheesy sauce.
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5 from 1 vote

One Pot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

This One Pot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta is an easy 30-minute dinner made with tender pasta shells and fresh broccoli tossed in a rich, cheesy Greek yogurt sauce. It’s cozy, family-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: broccoli cheddar pasta, broccoli cheese pasta, creamy broccoli pasta, easy vegetarian dinner, family-friendly pasta, healthy broccoli pasta, one pot creamy broccoli cheddar pasta, one pot pasta
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk plus more as needed
  • 12 oz medium pasta shells about 4 1/2 cups
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 4 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt at room temperature

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir in the pasta, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper and smoked paprika.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and cook for 9 to 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking.
  • Stir in the finely chopped broccoli. Cover and continue cooking for another 4 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender. Add another splash of broth or milk if the pasta absorbs the liquid before it finishes cooking.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the shredded cheddar one handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
  • Stir in the room-temperature Greek yogurt until fully incorporated. Add a splash of milk if a thinner sauce is desired.
  • Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, as needed. Let the pasta rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving, as the sauce will continue to thicken.

Nutrition

Serving: 1/6th of recipe | Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 620mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g