If you’re searching for the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and simplicity, the Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe has got you covered. This dish wraps tender egg noodles and vibrant broccoli in a luscious, cheesy sauce, all cooked up in one skillet—making it as easy on cleanup as it is on your taste buds. With gooey melted cheddar, a hint of garlic, and just the right amount of tangy Dijon, this is one of those recipes you’ll want to have on repeat for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of the Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe lies in its everyday ingredients, each one adding a pop of flavor or a boost of texture. Gather these basics and you’re halfway to dinner bliss!
- Egg noodles (8 oz): These wide, tender noodles soak up the creamy sauce beautifully without falling apart.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Gives a rich, silky base for sautéing the veggies and building that luscious sauce.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweet undertones and depth to the entire dish.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A must-have for flavor, it makes the sauce fragrant and savory.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Bright and crunchy, broccoli brings color, nutrients, and a fresh bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to enhance every flavor without overwhelming the cheese.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch of heat balances all that cheesiness.
- Dijon mustard (1/2 teaspoon): The secret ingredient for a little tang and extra complexity.
- Milk (1 cup): Helps create a smooth, creamy sauce around the noodles and veggies.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds major richness for an irresistibly velvety sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups): The star of the show—choose sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Boosts the cheese factor and adds a touch of nuttiness.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re just al dente. Drain them well so they’re ready to absorb all that incredible sauce later, and set them aside for a few minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a spacious skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter. Once bubbly and fragrant, add the chopped onion and let it sauté for two to three minutes, just enough to soften and turn lightly golden. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for another 30 seconds until your kitchen smells absolutely amazing.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli and Seasonings
Now it’s time to add those broccoli florets straight to the skillet along with the salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Give it all a good stir so the broccoli is coated in those savory flavors, and cook for a minute or two. This step brings the veggies to life and builds flavor at every layer of the Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe.
Step 4: Simmer with Milk and Cream
Pour in the milk and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let everything bubble away for around five minutes, just until the broccoli is fork-tender but not mushy. You’ll see the sauce start to thicken and take on a gorgeously creamy texture.
Step 5: Add Cheeses and Combine Noodles
Lower the heat, then sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring slowly until everything is melted and smooth. Finally, add the drained egg noodles directly into the skillet, tossing them around so they’re generously coated in all that oozy cheese sauce. Heat through for another minute, then you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Take this creamy creation over the top by finishing with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a dusting of Parmesan. For something fresh, chopped parsley or a few grinds of black pepper add an inviting touch of color and aroma.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe with simple sides can elevate it from comforting weeknight fare to a memorable feast. Warm garlic bread, a light green salad with lemony vinaigrette, or even roasted tomatoes balance the richness and bring out the dish’s best qualities.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, consider serving individual portions in oven-safe ramekins and giving them a quick broil for a bubbly cheese top. Or, turn leftovers into a cheesy pasta bake by spreading them in a dish, adding more cheese, and baking until golden. It’s flexible, family-friendly, and always a hit at the table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, simply transfer any leftover Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to three days, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
For longer storage, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. The cheesy sauce fares surprisingly well—just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating. It can be frozen for up to two months with little change in flavor or texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual servings, stirring halfway through for even heating. Either way, your Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe will come back to life without losing its creamy appeal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works beautifully in this recipe; just add it straight to the skillet and adjust the cooking time as needed until tender. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your Dijon mustard is certified gluten-free. The recipe stays just as creamy and comforting!
Does this reheat well for meal prep?
Yes, the Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. It keeps its texture and flavor for several days, and a quick reheat brings it right back to its irresistible, cheesy best.
Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Definitely! Stir in cooked shredded chicken, chickpeas, or even diced ham just before adding the noodles for a heartier, protein-packed meal the whole family will love.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute with extra milk, or use half-and-half in a pinch. While it won’t be quite as rich, your Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe will still turn out flavorful and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe brings together the best of cozy, family-friendly comfort food with the convenience we crave on busy nights. I’d love for you to give it a try—once you taste that creamy, cheesy sauce hugging every noodle and broccoli floret, it just might earn a place among your favorite go-to dinners!
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal with this Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet recipe. Creamy and cheesy, this dish is a quick and satisfying vegetarian dinner option that is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
Seasonings and Dairy:
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles: Boil the egg noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Add broccoli and seasonings: Stir in broccoli, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
- Simmer with dairy: Pour in milk and heavy cream, simmer until broccoli is tender.
- Melt cheeses: Reduce heat, add cheddar and Parmesan, stir until smooth.
- Combine and serve: Add noodles to the skillet, coat with sauce, heat through, and serve hot.
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas.
- You can opt for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles as alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
