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Easy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta with White Beans (One Pot)

This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta with White Beans is a one-pot dinner ready in under 30 minutes. A protein-rich sauce made from whole foods, packed with fiber the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cavatappi or rotini pasta dry
  • 4 cups broccoli florets trimmed
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup broth
  • 1/2 cup half and half
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 can white beans rinsed and drained

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot.
  2. Reserve some of the pasta water before draining, then drain the pasta and broccoli. (If you're serving little ones who prefer things plain, set aside some pasta and broccoli here.)
  3. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saute for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  4. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and broth. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the half and half, parmesan, cheddar, and nutritional yeast. Bring to a low simmer for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  6. Fold the pasta, broccoli, and white beans into the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen things up. Taste and add more salt if needed, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Reserve a little pasta water before draining. That starchy water is perfect for loosening the sauce and helping it cling to the pasta.
  • Don't skip rinsing the white beans. It removes excess sodium and gives you a cleaner flavor.
  • This is an easy one to stretch. Add extra beans or broccoli to feed a bigger crowd without much fuss.
  • Want more protein? Add extra white beans or fold in some cooked rotisserie chicken.
Storage Tips
  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
  • Freezer: Cream-based sauces can change texture when frozen, so this one is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.