Cheesy Broccoli Ziti Recipe

Welcome, dear food lovers! Today, we are diving into a delightful recipe that perfectly combines nutrition with comfort – Cheesy Broccoli Ziti! This dish is a family favorite that’s sure to bring everyone together around the dinner table. Imagine tender broccoli florets mingling with ziti noodles, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy embrace and baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s as hearty as it is heartwarming – an ideal dish for cozy family dinners or an impressive potluck contribution. Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a green ceramic baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large pot, cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture becomes a paste and bubbles. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until smooth and thickened.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat. Add half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine the cooked ziti and broccoli with the cheese sauce, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy goodness with your loved ones!

Helpful Tips

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free ziti and all-purpose gluten-free flour.
• Add some cooked chicken or bacon pieces for extra protein.
• For a spicier twist, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Pairings

Serve this delicious Cheesy Broccoli Ziti with a fresh garden salad and some garlic bread. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes for a refreshing drink pairing.

Conclusion

I hope this Cheesy Broccoli Ziti brings warmth and joy to your family table, just as it does to ours. I would love to see your creations, so please share your photos using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website at https://www.zynahz.com/. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!