Beef Sausage and Broccoli Cheesy Pasta

Looking for a creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s loaded with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes? This Beef Sausage and Broccoli Cheesy Pasta has you covered. It combines hearty beef sausage, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce that coats every bite. This family-friendly dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Creamy & Cheesy – A rich cheese sauce wraps every bite in comfort.
• Fast & Family-Friendly – Ready in 30 minutes and loved by all ages.
• Balanced Meal – Includes protein, veggies, and carbs all in one dish.
• Customizable – Use your favorite pasta, cheese, or even add extra veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta Dish:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb beef sausage (sliced or crumbled)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

For Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or deep skillet
• Strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water.
4. Drain both the pasta and broccoli together. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Sausage

1. In the same pot or a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add beef sausage and cook for 6–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add chopped onion and cook for another 2–3 minutes until soft.
4. Stir in garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Lower heat and pour in the cream. Stir to combine with the sausage mixture.
2. Add cheddar (or mozzarella) and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and melted.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.

Step 4: Combine & Finish

1. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce.
2. Toss everything together gently until well-coated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Simmer on low for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
2. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Pasta

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese – It melts more smoothly and gives the best texture.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli – Adding it at the end keeps it bright green and tender-crisp.
• Try Other Pasta Shapes – Fusilli, farfalle, or elbow macaroni also work great.
• Boost the Flavor – Add a splash of Dijon mustard or a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
• Make It a Bake – Pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread or Baguette – For extra dipping and crunch.
• Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or simple vinaigrette salad balances the richness.
• Steamed Veggies – Add color and nutrients with steamed carrots or green beans.
• Chilled Lemonade or Sparkling Water – Refreshing alongside a creamy dish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Let cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream and heat gently until warmed.
• Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, just thaw and add it directly to the pasta water during the last minute of cooking.
2. Can I use another type of sausage?
   Absolutely—chicken or turkey sausage works great too.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Try using plant-based cream and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
4. Is this freezer-friendly?
   Yes! Store cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of cream or broth.
5. What other veggies can I add?
   Mushrooms, spinach, peas, or bell peppers all make great additions.

Final Thoughts
This Beef Sausage and Broccoli Cheesy Pasta is the kind of meal that brings comfort to the table in a flash. It’s easy, versatile, and sure to become a regular in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction.

Try it out tonight and enjoy every creamy, cheesy forkful. Don’t forget to leave a review and share your pasta creations!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 530 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 39g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 650mg

Print