There’s something magical about a dish that brings together comfort and nutrition, and that’s exactly what you get with Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad. This creamy delight is not just a meal; it’s a quick solution for those busy days when you want something satisfying yet easy to whip up. I remember making this salad for family gatherings, and it always disappeared faster than I could serve it. With fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a tangy dressing, it’s a dish that impresses without the fuss. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
This Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, delicious meal. It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The creamy dressing pairs beautifully with the crunch of fresh broccoli and the sharpness of cheddar. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a main course, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice, it holds the creamy dressing beautifully.
Fresh broccoli florets: These add a vibrant crunch and a boost of nutrients.
Sharp cheddar cheese: This is the star of the show, providing a rich, tangy flavor.
Mayonnaise: It forms the base of the creamy dressing, adding richness.
Sour cream: This adds a tangy twist and enhances the creaminess.
Apple cider vinegar: A splash of acidity to balance the flavors.
Dijon mustard: This brings a subtle kick and depth to the dressing.
Garlic powder: A hint of garlic flavor without the fuss of fresh cloves.
Onion powder: Adds a savory note that complements the other ingredients.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Chopped green onions (optional): For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Diced red bell pepper (optional): Adds sweetness and crunch, making the salad even more colorful.
For those looking to lighten things up, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also add cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. If you want a bit of crunch, sunflower seeds or chopped nuts can be a delightful addition. Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
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How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
Creating this Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the salad. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep it from getting mushy.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
While the pasta is cooking, bring another pot of water to a boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets and blanch them for just 2 minutes. This quick cooking method brightens the color and keeps the broccoli crisp. After 2 minutes, drain the broccoli and rinse it under cold water. This step is crucial to maintain that vibrant green color and crunch.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Broccoli
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled elbow macaroni and the blanched broccoli. Toss them gently to mix. At this point, you can also add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt slightly from the warmth of the pasta, creating a deliciously creamy texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing is what brings everything together, so don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Pour the dressing over the pasta and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated. If you’re using optional ingredients like chopped green onions or diced red bell pepper, fold them in gently. These add extra flavor and a pop of color to your salad.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and enjoy your creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad.
Tips for Success
Always rinse the pasta under cold water to prevent it from sticking together.
For extra flavor, let the salad chill longer than 30 minutes; overnight is even better!
Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste; add more vinegar for tang or mustard for a kick.
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Don’t skip the optional ingredients; they add great texture and flavor!
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling pasta and blanching broccoli. A stockpot works well too.
Colander: To drain the pasta and broccoli. A fine mesh strainer can be a good substitute.
Mixing bowls: One large for the salad and a smaller one for the dressing.
Whisk: For mixing the dressing. A fork can do the job in a pinch.
Spatula or spoon: For tossing everything together.
Variations of Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or diced ham for a heartier meal.
Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like feta for a tangy twist or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Veggie Medley: Incorporate other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, carrots, or peas for added color and nutrition.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic knots for a satisfying side.
Complement with a light vinaigrette salad for freshness.
Enjoy with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea.
Garnish with extra cheddar and green onions for a pop of color.
FAQs about Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after it sits for a while. You can prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
How long does Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, this pasta salad can last up to 3-5 days in the fridge. Just keep an eye on the freshness of the broccoli and cheese.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before adding it to the salad. It’s a convenient option if you’re short on time.
Is Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely! This dish is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for meatless meals. You can also add protein like chickpeas for a heartier version.
What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a standalone dish. It’s versatile enough to complement any meal!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to the table. Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy, crunchy, and tangy flavors that can brighten any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this creamy delight become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
A creamy and delicious Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad that combines elbow macaroni, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
Instructions
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, blanched broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
If using, fold in the chopped green onions and diced red bell pepper for added flavor and crunch.
Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise and sour cream.
You can also add cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
For a bit of crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or chopped nuts.
