Ziti With Broccoli
Ziti with broccoli is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish combining tender broccoli florets with al dente ziti, enriched by Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that satisfy all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the broccoli in water for 10 minutes until tender.
- Drain the broccoli and set aside.
- Cook the ziti in boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente.
- Drain the ziti and set aside.
- Saute minced garlic in olive oil in a large skillet until lightly browned.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the cooked ziti, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, tossing well.
- Spoon the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex pan and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter. For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and cream. This dish also works well with other vegetables like spinach or peas, adding flexibility to your vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ziti with a side of Italian Tomato Soup for a comforting meal, or pair it with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. It also complements crusty Italian Cheese Bread, enhancing the dining experience. This dish can be a stand-alone meal or part of a larger Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti With Broccoli contains roughly 1398 calories, with 13g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 137g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for convenience. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet. This will help avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will still add a nice depth to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ziti and broccoli mixture in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).