Creamy Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting and versatile dish that seems to have originated from the kitchens of Italian-American households. It's a wonderful way to incorporate a good amount of vegetables into your meal while still enjoying the creamy, cheesy goodness we all love in a baked pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, providing a hearty and filling option that can be on the table in about an hour.

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which helps to balance out the richness of the creamy pasta bake. Additionally, a side of garlic bread or a baguette can be used to mop up any leftover sauce, completing your meal. For a touch of elegance, consider serving this with a chilled glass of white wine.

Servings: 6

12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.

Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce, mixing until everything is well coated.

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the mozzarella cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked and diced chicken breast or crumbled bacon to the pasta mix before baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Vegetarians can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegetarian-friendly alternative. You can also swap out the broccoli for cauliflower or use a combination of both for added variety.

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