This One Pot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta is an easy 30-minute dinner featuring tender pasta shells and fresh broccoli tossed in a rich, cheesy Greek yogurt sauce. Cozy, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
If you enjoy broccoli cheddar soup and creamy mac and cheese, this One Pot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta brings the best of both worlds. Pasta shells and finely chopped broccoli cook together in a single pot, soaking up savory broth and milk to create a thoughtfully seasoned, velvety sauce. It’s a simple, comforting dish that works as a main course or an indulgent side.
Sharp cheddar gives this dish its classic cheesy bite, while plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and extra protein without heavy cream. The recipe is designed for a quick 30-minute turnaround, making it ideal for weeknights when you want something fast, flavorful and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Pasta
- One-pot convenience – everything cooks together for minimal prep and easy cleanup.
- Creamy, cheesy sauce – sharp cheddar and Greek yogurt deliver rich flavor and smooth texture without heavy cream.
- Vegetable-forward – packed with four cups of broccoli to make it an easy way to add veggies to dinner.
- Family-friendly – familiar, comforting flavors kids and adults both enjoy.
- Quick to make – from start to table in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup milk, plus more as needed
- 12 oz medium pasta shells (about 4½ cups dry)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, brought to room temperature
How to Make One Pot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta
- Sauté aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Add liquids and pasta. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then stir in the pasta shells and seasonings: onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper and smoked paprika.
- Simmer until almost tender. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, cover and cook 9–10 minutes, stirring every few minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick.
- Stir in broccoli. Add the finely chopped broccoli, cover and cook another 4–6 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender. If liquid is absorbed before the pasta is cooked, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Finish with cheese. Remove the pot from heat and let sit 1–2 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheddar a handful at a time until fully melted and smooth.
- Fold in Greek yogurt. Gently stir in room-temperature Greek yogurt until the sauce is creamy. Add a splash of milk if you prefer a thinner sauce.
- Season and rest. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Let the pasta rest 2–3 minutes; the sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.
Tips for Best Results
- Chop broccoli small: Small pieces cook faster and distribute more evenly through the pasta.
- Stir frequently: One-pot pasta can cling to the pan—stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
- Keep heat low once simmering: A gentle simmer prevents milk from scorching or separating.
- Shred your own cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
- Add dairy off heat: Remove from heat before adding cheese and yogurt to avoid graininess or curdling.
- Adjust sauce later: The pasta will keep absorbing liquid; add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, diced sausage or leftover turkey for a heartier meal.
- Make vegetarian: Use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Swap pasta shapes: Elbow macaroni, rotini, fusilli or small shell shapes all work—adjust liquid and time as needed.
- Add vegetables: Finely chopped spinach, peas or cauliflower are great additions.
- Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Try different cheeses: Mix in Parmesan, Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a new flavor profile.
What to Serve With It
This pasta is satisfying on its own, but also pairs well with simple proteins and sides such as baked or grilled chicken breasts, air fryer salmon, garlic shrimp, a green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make a comforting accompaniment.
Prepping and Storage
- To store: Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- To reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended—dairy-based sauces and cooked broccoli can separate and become soft once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes. No need to thaw—add chopped florets during the last few minutes of cooking. Frozen broccoli may release extra moisture and will be softer than fresh.
- Can I use a different pasta? Any short pasta works, such as small shells, elbow macaroni, rotini or cavatappi. Cooking time and liquid may vary by shape.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes—swap chicken broth for low-sodium vegetable broth.
- What can substitute Greek yogurt? Sour cream can be used in the same amount. For a richer sauce, softened cream cheese works but may require additional milk to thin.
- Why did my cheese sauce turn grainy? Graininess usually results from adding cheese while the pot is too hot or using pre-shredded cheese. Remove from heat and add freshly shredded cheddar gradually, stirring until smooth.
Nutrition (Approximate)
Per serving (1 of 6): about 400 kcal | Carbohydrates: 50 g | Protein: 20 g | Fat: 13 g | Saturated Fat: 6 g | Cholesterol: 35 mg | Sodium: 620 mg | Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 6 g. Nutrition is an estimate and should be used as a guideline.
Enjoy this One Pot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta—an easy, comforting weeknight recipe the whole family will enjoy. If you try it, leave a rating or comment to share your experience!