Imagine a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, comforting, and super easy to throw together no boiling pasta required! Yes, you heard that right. This No-Boil Broccoli Pasta Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines all the best things: rich, melty cheese, tender broccoli, and perfectly baked pasta. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll want to make again and again.

The beauty of this bake lies in its simplicity. You can layer everything up, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. And because we’re skipping the whole boiling pasta step, you can get dinner on the table in less than an hour. Ready to dig into this cozy, cheesy delight? Let’s do it!

Why You’ll Love No-Boil Broccoli Pasta Bake

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re feeding your family after a busy day, hosting a cozy dinner party, or just craving something rich and satisfying, this bake is your go-to. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Add your favorite veggies, swap out the pasta shape, or make it gluten-free!
Budget-Friendly: Simple, everyday ingredients that don’t break the bank.
Quick and Easy: No boiling, no fuss just mix and bake.
Customizable: Want to make it extra cheesy or throw in some protein? Go for it!
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with everyone at the table. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy all tastes. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of cheesy, hearty, and comforting.

Ingredients

Ingredients in No-Boil Broccoli Pasta Bake

This pasta bake is full of creamy goodness, with fresh broccoli and layers of cheesy flavor that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

Pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow): The perfect base for the bake, holding all the creamy sauce.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds texture and nutrients while soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella and Cheddar): A melty, gooey dream that pulls it all together.
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Helps create that luscious, creamy texture.
Garlic Powder: For an extra depth of flavor that complements the cheese.
Onion Powder: A savory, aromatic note that makes this bake pop.
Vegetable Broth or Water: To cook the pasta in the oven without boiling it first.
Salt and Pepper: To taste this simple seasoning makes all the difference.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy cleanup.

Prepare the Broccoli

Cut your broccoli into florets and lightly steam or blanch them until just tender, about 2–3 minutes. Don’t overcook! You want them to retain a little bite.

Mix the Pasta and Sauce

In a large bowl, combine uncooked pasta, milk (or plant-based milk), vegetable broth, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Add the Broccoli and Cheese

Add the steamed broccoli and 1½ cups of shredded cheese to the pasta mixture. Mix well until everything is coated with the creamy sauce.

Assemble the Bake

Pour the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s so cheesy and creamy that you’ll want to dive right in.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320

(put them as notes)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve No-Boil Broccoli Pasta Bake

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• With a Side Salad: Fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette balance out the creamy richness of the bake.
• With Garlic Bread: The perfect tool for sopping up that creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Topped with Grilled Chicken or Tofu: Add some protein for a heartier meal.
• With Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts would be amazing.
• As a Make-Ahead Meal: This dish holds up well in the fridge for leftovers the next day.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Don’t skip covering the bake with foil this helps it cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.
• If you prefer a crispier top, broil it for 2–3 minutes after baking.
• Use your favorite pasta shape just be sure it can hold up to the creamy sauce.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes on top before baking.
• Add a handful of spinach or peas for extra veggies.

FAQs

1 Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.

2 Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go.

3 Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake it the next day.

4 Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Chicken, sausage, or even chickpeas would be great additions.

5 How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

6 Can I make this without cream cheese?
You can substitute it with sour cream or skip it entirely and use extra cheese.

7 Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Yes, any melty cheese like gouda or fontina will work well.

8 How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden, and the sauce should be bubbling.

9 Can I freeze this?
Yes, freeze the assembled dish before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake when ready.

10 Can I make this with other veggies?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would all work beautifully.

Conclusion

This No-Boil Broccoli Pasta Bake is pure comfort in a dish. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you get a cheesy, creamy, veggie-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, this pasta bake is your new best friend. Give it a try you won’t be disappointed!

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