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- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- reynolds wrap® pan lining paper
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1/2 cup fine dry italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- Carbohydrate 35.2
- Cholesterol 59
- Fat 20.2
- Protein 16.9
- Sodium 483
- Calories 388 calories;
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 2-quart casserole dish with Reynolds Wrap Pan Lining Paper, parchment side up. No need to grease dish.
- Cook the pasta in a large saucepan according to the package directions, adding the broccoli for the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain. Return to the saucepan and set aside.
- Cook the onion and garlic in 2 tablespoons hot butter in a large skillet 5 to 7 minutes or until tender. Stir in flour, salt, and black pepper. Add the milk all at once. Cook and stir over medium heat until slightly thickened and bubbly. Add cheddar cheese and cream cheese, stirring until melted. Pour cheese sauce over the pasta and broccoli and stir until well combined.
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and mix with the bread crumbs in a small bowl. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Top with the buttery bread crumbs.
- Bake, uncovered, about 25 minutes or until bubbly and internal temperature is 165 degrees F. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
My Comfort Food: Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal for my family can often feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and after-school activities, my evenings are a whirlwind of activity. But one thing I've learned is the importance of creating a warm, inviting atmosphere at home, and that starts with a comforting, satisfying dinner. This creamy broccoli cheddar pasta bake has become a family favorite – a true lifesaver on those hectic weeknights.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep time, and the results are always impressive. The combination of tender broccoli, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce is irresistible. Even my picky eaters can't resist a spoonful of this delightful casserole. And the best part? It's surprisingly easy to assemble and bake, making it perfect for those moments when you need a quick, yet wholesome meal. I often double the recipe, making extra for lunches throughout the week – a huge timesaver for busy mornings. The leftovers reheat beautifully and taste just as delicious the next day, making it a practical choice for busy lifestyles. This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a symbol of comfort and togetherness.
What truly makes this pasta bake special is the adaptability. You can easily customize it to your liking. For instance, I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms or diced chicken for extra protein. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, too – a blend of Monterey Jack and Gruyere would add a delightful twist. The possibilities are endless. The key is to have fun with it and personalize it to suit your family's preferences. The beauty of home cooking is in the freedom to adapt and create something truly your own. This dish has become a staple in my family's repertoire, not just for its delicious taste but for its ability to bring us together at the end of a long day.
Beyond the practical aspects, this pasta bake holds sentimental value for me. It reminds me of cozy family dinners, of laughter and shared moments around the table. It's a dish that transcends mere sustenance; it nourishes the soul, reminding me of the simple joys of home and family. It's a comforting reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time for a warm, delicious meal shared with loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own comforting memories around it. Let this be more than just a meal; let it be a centerpiece for your own family traditions.
Ingredients: (This section is just a refresher; the full ingredient list is provided separately.)
- Whole wheat rotini pasta
- Broccoli florets
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Reduced-fat cream cheese
- Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper
