Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients:

• 500g broccoli
• 250g pasta of your choice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of butter
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 400 ml of milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (lightly filled, not packed)
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup each shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese

Preparation steps:

1. Cook the pasta in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Then drain and reserve.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
3. In a pan, melt the butter then brown the onions for about 3 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the broccoli to the onions and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the cream, milk, flour, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, nutmeg (if using), and salt until well combined.
6. Pour this mixture into the pan with the broccoli and onions. Cook over medium-high heat until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
7. In a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and creamy broccoli sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly coated.
8. Sprinkle the top with grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (374°F) until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve:

• Let the baked pasta cool for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can blend.

Enjoy this comforting and hearty broccoli pasta bake, a perfect blend of creamy sauce, tender pasta and nutritious broccoli, all topped with a golden layer of melted cheese. This will definitely please everyone!