Cheesy Broccoli Pasta for Comforting Meal

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €10.54 · €1.76/serving

• Coarse saltEst. price €0.02–€0.08
• 1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi (corkscrew-shaped pasta)Est. price €1.20–€2.50
• 21/2 cups broccoli floretsEst. price €1.50–€3.00
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) (once around the pan)Est. price €0.15–€0.35
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butterEst. price €0.40–€0.80
• 1 small onion, finely choppedEst. price €0.30–€0.60
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flourEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepperEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• 1 teaspoon paprikaEst. price €0.12–€0.30
• 3 cups whole milkEst. price €1.80–€2.70

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by heating a large pot of water until it reaches a rolling boil. Season the water generously with salt before gently adding the pasta into the pot. Allow it to cook for 5 minutes before introducing the broccoli into the same pot. Continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes or until the pasta reaches al dente consistency and the broccoli florets are tender. Once ready, drain thoroughly and transfer back into the pot for further preparation.

2. 2

   While the pasta is boiling, prepare a medium sauce pot over medium-low heat. Combine Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and butter in the pot and allow them to melt together. Introduce the onions and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until they become translucent and release their natural sweetness. Increase the heat slightly before incorporating the flour, cayenne pepper, and paprika into the mixture. Continuously whisk until a roux forms and bubbles up, then continue cooking for an additional minute. Gradually pour in the milk and stock while whisking vigorously, raising the heat slightly to bring the sauce to a rapid boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Combine the cheese with the thickened sauce, stirring until melted for about a minute. Mix in the mustard and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the sauce over the broccoli and cooked pasta, tossing them together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before transferring to a large serving platter. Serve immediately.

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• Cultural note

  Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish that is popular in American cuisine, often served as a family-friendly meal or at potlucks. The combination of cheese, pasta, and broccoli creates a satisfying and flavorful dish enjoyed by many.

• Seasonal note

  Broccoli is best in the cooler months of fall and spring, making this dish perfect for those seasons. Pasta is a versatile ingredient available year-round.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C from broccoli. However, it is high in calories, fat, and saturated fat, so moderation is key. The dish also provides some zinc which is important for immune function.