Name: Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Egg Noodles: 8 oz Butter: 2 tablespoons Yellow Onion: 1 small, diced Garlic Cloves: 2, minced Broccoli Florets: 3 cups, chopped small All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons Whole Milk: 1 ½ cups Vegetable Broth: 1 cup Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon Salt: ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded Red Pepper Flakes: optional for garnish

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If you’re craving something cozy and satisfying that comes together in a single pan, this Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe is the one to make. Packed with tender noodles, bites of crisp broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce that’s sheer comfort, this dish delivers a big punch of flavor with shockingly little effort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a “let’s-clean-out-the-fridge” night, you’ll fall in love with both its versatility and nostalgia factor. Even picky eaters might just surprise you by asking for seconds—if you’re willing to share!

Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy for the Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe—just some familiar staples that each play a key role in making this skillet feel incredibly hearty and luscious. Every ingredient brings not just taste, but also beautiful color and texture. Here’s the power lineup:

Egg noodles: Their curly edges grab all that cheesy sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
Butter: Brings richness to the base, making the onions and garlic irresistible.
Yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth after sautéing.
Garlic cloves: A little fresh garlic goes a long way to giving this skillet a savory lift.
Fresh broccoli florets: The star veggie—chop them small for perfectly tender bites in every forkful.
All-purpose flour: Just enough to help thicken the creamy sauce to the ideal consistency.
Whole milk: Creates that luscious, silky sauce you’ll want to scoop up with bread.
Vegetable broth: Enhances the flavor and lightens the sauce without making it heavy.
Dijon mustard: Adds a pop of brightness and subtle zing that keeps the cheese from feeling too heavy.
Salt and pepper: Balances all the rich and fresh notes so nothing tastes flat.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts like a dream and brings that unforgettable cheesy flavor!
Optional red pepper flakes: Sprinkled on top for a gently spicy twist—completely up to you.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling the egg noodles according to the package directions, just until they’re al dente. The texture is key—you want them to hold up and not go mushy in the final dish. Once they’re cooked, drain them well and set aside. This step gives you time to prep your veggies and cheese, getting everything ready for quick assembly.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In your favorite large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and let it soften for about 3–4 minutes—it’ll start turning translucent and smell incredible. Next, stir in the fresh garlic and cook just until fragrant. This short step builds the deep flavor foundation for the Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli

Add your chopped broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until their color turns bright green and they become crisp-tender. Keeping the broccoli small helps it cook quickly and evenly, so every bite is tasty and tender without overcooking.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the veggies and stir continuously for about one minute. This coats everything and prevents lumps in your sauce. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and vegetable broth, and keep stirring. As the mixture bubbles gently, it will thicken up into a creamy base—this only takes 3–5 minutes, so don’t wander away!

Step 5: Season and Combine

Now’s the time to add the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir so that these seasonings blend into your sauce. They help cut through the richness and bring balance to every bite of your Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe.

Step 6: Finish with Noodles and Cheese

Add your cooked noodles to the skillet and gently fold them into the bubbling sauce and veggies, making sure they’re evenly coated. Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, letting it melt until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and outrageously cheesy. If you like a little kick, now’s your chance to sprinkle on red pepper flakes!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe with a flourish of red pepper flakes or extra cheddar cheese. For color and freshness, a handful of chopped chives or parsley makes each plate look extra inviting. Even a squeeze of fresh lemon can wake up the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This skillet is a meal on its own, but it loves the company of fresh, simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad and some warm garlic bread, or pair with roasted carrots and a citrusy vinaigrette for a well-rounded vegetarian dinner that hits every note.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle individual servings into mini cast iron skillets for a fun, rustic presentation, or spoon the noodles into vibrant bowls and top with a mix of shredded cheddar and finely chopped herbs. If you’re looking to impress, take a few minutes to broil the skillet for a bubbly, golden cheese crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them into an airtight container. The Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or “what’s-for-dinner” emergencies.

Freezing

Want to freeze for later? Portion the cooled noodles into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. The sauce may thicken slightly after thawing, but a splash of milk when reheating brings it right back to life. Try to use within one month for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave, stirring partway through, or gently heat the whole skillet on the stovetop over low. Add a little milk or splash of broth if the sauce looks too thick, and stir until creamy and heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well before using. This helps keep the sauce from getting watery and gives you that same delicious bite in your Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe.

Is there a way to make it even cheesier?

Of course—and why not? Sprinkle extra cheese on top and pop the skillet under the broiler for a couple minutes until golden and bubbly for a classic, cheesy finish.

What protein can I add to this skillet?

For extra heartiness, stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or chickpeas along with the noodles. These simple additions make the Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe even more satisfying and complete.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the regular egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour in place of the all-purpose. Easy as that—everyone can enjoy this cheesy classic.

Why add Dijon mustard to the sauce?

Dijon mustard adds brightness and a subtle tang that enhances the cheddar’s flavor without overpowering it. It’s the secret to keeping the creamy sauce balanced and lively in this Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe is pure weeknight joy—simple, cheesy, and so very satisfying. Next time you need a comforting meal or want to wow a crowd with minimal effort, give it a try! Trust me, you’ll be making it again and again, and everyone at your table will thank you.

Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe is a comforting and easy-to-make one-pan meal that combines tender egg noodles with fresh broccoli in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Egg Noodles:

8 oz

Butter:

2 tablespoons

Yellow Onion:

1 small, diced

Garlic Cloves:

2, minced

Broccoli Florets:

3 cups, chopped small

All-Purpose Flour:

2 tablespoons

Whole Milk:

1 ½ cups

Vegetable Broth:

1 cup

Dijon Mustard:

1 teaspoon

Salt:

½ teaspoon

Black Pepper:

¼ teaspoon

Sharp Cheddar Cheese:

2 cups, shredded

Red Pepper Flakes:

optional for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Egg Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, then add the garlic and cook briefly.
Add Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli and sauté until slightly tender.
Make the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the mixture, then slowly whisk in milk and broth until the sauce thickens. Season with mustard, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and mix. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until creamy.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired and serve warm.