There’s just something magical about a big, creamy bowl of Cheese Pasta—it’s everything comfort food should be: deeply cheesy, rich yet balanced, and so satisfying that you’ll want to sneak bites straight from the pot. This recipe folds tender gemelli pasta with a golden Parmesan-cheddar sauce, speckled with finely chopped broccoli and just a wisp of warmth from hot sauce and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re looking to indulge or sneak some veggies into your dinner, Cheese Pasta has you covered for quick weeknights and cozy Sunday suppers alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With a short, straightforward list, every ingredient in this Cheese Pasta brings something special—creamy texture, robust flavor, a pop of color, or just the kind of heartiness that turns a simple dinner into everyone’s favorite. There are no tricky specialty items here, just familiar kitchen staples coming together in perfect harmony.

Chicken broth: Lends depth and a savory base that truly elevates the cheesy sauce.
Half and half: Provides silkiness and adds just the right amount of richness to keep things indulgent, not heavy.
Chicken bouillon cube (half): Intensifies the umami and brings a concentrated boost of flavor—don’t skip this tiny powerhouse.
Hot sauce: Just a splash (like Frank’s) gives subtle zest without making things spicy, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley (½ teaspoon each): This seasoning blend weaves some gentle complexity and herbaceous notes right into the sauce.
Butter: The base for your roux, butter sets the tone for a velvety, glossy sauce.
Flour: Partners with butter for a smooth, stable sauce—not lumpy, not watery, just perfectly clingy to your pasta.
Broccoli (very finely chopped, 1½ cups): Go small! A fine chop ensures tender pops of green in every bite without overpowering the Cheese Pasta.
Gemelli pasta (½ lb): This darling twisty pasta grabs onto every ounce of cheese sauce, giving you chewy-creamy results.
Cheddar cheese (shredded, 1 cup): The heart of the dish—pick a sharp cheddar for a punchy, classic flavor.
Parmesan cheese (grated, 2 tablespoons): Adds depth, savoriness, and a salty kiss to the finished pasta.

How to Make Cheese Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Measure Everything

First things first: finely chop the broccoli until it almost looks minced—this step is key for cooking the veggies perfectly and ensuring your Cheese Pasta has tender green flecks in every forkful. Measure and set out everything else so you’re not scrambling midway through; this makes the cooking process feel smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Blend the Base Mixture

In a large measuring cup, combine the chicken broth, half and half, half a bouillon cube, hot sauce, and all your dried seasonings. Give it a quick stir so that flavors start melding while you move to the next steps. Preparing this blend in advance means your sauce will come together quickly and evenly.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling, generously salt the water—this adds flavor deep inside the pasta itself. Gemelli cooks up to the perfect al dente texture, especially when you stir occasionally while it’s boiling. Don’t forget to drain it as soon as it’s ready.

Step 4: Make Your Roux

In your largest, high-sided skillet, melt the butter gently over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously, and let it cook for one to two minutes. This step will knock out any raw flour taste and create the thickening powerhouse needed for a luscious Cheese Pasta sauce.

Step 5: Create the Cheese Pasta Sauce

Slowly pour in the broth mixture, just a splash at a time, whisking thoroughly each time for a smooth sauce with no lumps. Once incorporated, add in your finely chopped broccoli. Bring everything up to a light boil, then turn the heat down to a gentle simmer. Partially cover the skillet to let the broccoli soften while the flavors round out.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook the Pasta

While your cheese sauce simmers away, boil the gemelli pasta until al dente (still with a slight bite). Stir the pasta gently once or twice to keep it from sticking together, then drain well. This way, each pasta twist is primed to soak up the irresistible sauce.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce With Cheese

Lower the heat beneath your sauce and begin stirring in both the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until completely smooth and combined. Watch the sauce transform into a bubbling, golden cauldron—don’t rush this part, as patience ensures all the flavors meld perfectly!

Step 8: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the drained pasta into your finished sauce. Stir until every noodle is coated and glistening, then remove from heat. Letting the Cheese Pasta stand for a couple of minutes will allow the sauce to thicken and cling deliciously to every bite. Serve right away for peak meltiness!

How to Serve Cheese Pasta

Garnishes

A beautiful bowl of Cheese Pasta truly shines with just a few thoughtful finishing touches. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan for a pop of green and an extra layer of cheesy goodness. A twist of freshly cracked black pepper or a delicate drizzle of olive oil can make this dish absolutely sing.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cheese Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or try some roasted veggies for contrasting textures. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty sourdough is practically mandatory for swiping through every last drop of that creamy sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cheese Pasta in individual ramekins for a bistro-style feel at home, or use the sauce as a luxurious base for baked casseroles topped with more cheese and breadcrumbs. For a fun twist, toss in roasted chicken or crispy bacon bits just before serving—it’s a flexible recipe that loves a good remix.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Cheese Pasta to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making for a delicious next-day lunch or easy dinner when you’re short on time.

Freezing

This Cheese Pasta freezes better than you might expect, though the sauce may thicken a touch after thawing. Spoon your cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers, pressing out any excess air. It can be safely frozen for up to two months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your Cheese Pasta back to its creamy glory, reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or half and half to reinvigorate the sauce. Stir frequently for even warming and watch it transform right back into luscious perfection. The microwave also works for small portions, though stovetop is best for texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute the gemelli pasta with another shape?

Absolutely! While gemelli is amazing for holding onto the silky sauce, any short, sturdy pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini works beautifully in this Cheese Pasta recipe. Just aim for something with crevices or twists for maximum sauciness.

Is there a way to make this Cheese Pasta vegetarian?

Definitely—just swap the chicken broth for veggie broth and use a vegetable bouillon cube. You’ll still be rewarded with deeply savory, cheesy results that everyone can enjoy.

What’s the trick to preventing a grainy cheese sauce?

The key is to lower the heat before adding your cheeses and stir steadily until fully melted. Avoid boiling the sauce after the cheese goes in; a gentle, slow melt guarantees Cheese Pasta with an ultra-smooth, creamy texture!

Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Shredded rotisserie chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or some crisp bacon work wonders swirled into Cheese Pasta. Just stir your protein in at the end so it stays tender and juicy.

Can I make Cheese Pasta gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. The cheese and broccoli will still bring all their creamy, hearty goodness to the party.

Final Thoughts

If you adore a silky, rich, and full-flavored dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’re going to fall for this Cheese Pasta recipe. It’s a little bit nostalgic, a little bit grown-up, and endlessly customizable—so grab your happiest bowl and give it a try tonight!