Why You’ll Love It
This cheesy broccoli chicken pasta bake is everything you want in a cozy, satisfying meal.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—pure comfort food at its best. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta all baked together in a rich, melty cheese sauce, this dish is the kind of weeknight dinner the whole family will ask for again and again.
Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty, delicious pasta bake:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed until just tender)
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard for added depth
- Optional: ¼ cup breadcrumbs for a crispy topping
How to Make It
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to quickly blanch them. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly—about 3–4 minutes.
Reduce the heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard if using. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well, then pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or extra shredded cheese on top.
4. Bake Until Golden
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow everything to set.
Tips
- Shortcut tip: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for even faster prep.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the bake earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Cheese tip: Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
- Veggie swap: Sub in cauliflower, peas, or spinach if you’re out of broccoli.
Serving Ideas
This cheesy broccoli chicken pasta bake is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
- Roasted vegetables like carrots or brussels sprouts
- A side of fruit for a lighter contrast
It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot. Add a splash of milk before reheating if the pasta looks dry.
This cheesy, comforting pasta bake also freezes well. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.