Description
This No-Boil Broccoli Pasta Bake is a simple, creamy, and cheesy casserole made with pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked together without the need to pre-cook the pasta — a perfect comfort dish with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free cheese)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, combine the uncooked pasta, broccoli florets, tomato sauce, heavy cream, garlic, oregano, basil, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add more cream or use a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
- This dish can be made ahead by assembling everything and storing it in the fridge, then baking it when ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: no-boil pasta bake, broccoli pasta bake, creamy pasta casserole, easy pasta bake, vegetarian pasta bake