Golden, cheesy Winter Broccoli Pesto Baked Pasta with fresh broccoli and pesto in a white baking dish.

Winter Broccoli Pesto Baked Pasta Recipe

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This Winter Broccoli Pesto Baked Pasta is the ultimate cozy, cheesy, and flavor-packed comfort food you didn’t know you needed! Imagine perfectly al dente rigatoni coated in a vibrant, garlicky broccoli pesto, layered with gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a veggie-forward dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for pasta night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Veggie-Packed & Flavorful – Broccoli and basil come together for a fresh, herby, and nutrient-rich pesto.
  • Ultra-Cheesy Goodness – Mozzarella and Parmesan create that irresistible melty, golden topping.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for prepping ahead and baking when you’re ready!
  • Great for Cold Nights – This cozy, baked pasta dish is perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious baked pasta:

  • Broccoli – The star of the show! Blended into a creamy, flavorful pesto.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds nutty, salty depth to the pesto and the topping.
  • Basil Leaves – Brings a fresh, herby brightness.
  • Garlic – Because what’s pesto without garlic? Adds bold, aromatic flavor.
  • Lemon Juice – Balances the richness and enhances the freshness.
  • Pine Nuts – Classic pesto ingredient, giving a buttery texture and nutty taste.
  • Olive Oil – Helps create a smooth, luscious pesto.
  • Rigatoni Pasta – Its ridges hold onto all that delicious sauce.
  • Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that stretchy, cheesy goodness.

📌 The full ingredient list with measurements is right below in the recipe card!

How to Make Winter Broccoli Pesto Baked Pasta

Step 1: Blanch the Broccoli

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the broccoli for about 4 minutes until tender.
  • Immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  • In the same pot, cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions.
  • Drain and return to the pot.

Step 3: Make the Broccoli Pesto

  • Drain the cooled broccoli and add it to a food processor with ¼ cup of Parmesan, basil, garlic, lemon juice, and pine nuts.
  • Blend until a coarse texture forms, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  • Pour the broccoli pesto into the pot with the pasta.
  • Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the remaining Parmesan.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

  • Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
  • Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Don’t Skip the Ice Bath – It helps the broccoli stay vibrant green and prevents overcooking.
  • Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well due to anti-caking agents.
  • Want Extra Creaminess? – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or ricotta cheese into the pesto before mixing with the pasta.
  • Boost the Protein – Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

How to Serve

This baked pasta is a meal on its own, but here are some delicious ways to serve it:

  • With a Side Salad – A crisp arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness.
  • Garlic Bread – Because carbs on carbs is always a good idea.
  • Top with Extra Parmesan & Basil – For extra flavor and a gorgeous finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

  • Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating

  • Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or shells work great since they hold onto the pesto sauce well.

What can I use instead of pine nuts?

Try walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a budget-friendly or nut-free option.

Can I make this pesto without a food processor?

Yes! Finely chop the broccoli and basil, then mix with the rest of the ingredients until well combined.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Grilled chicken, crispy pancetta, or even white beans would be delicious additions.

Looking for another cozy, comforting meal? Try this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings – a slow-cooked classic packed with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich flavors. Perfect for chilly nights!

Final Thoughts

This Winter Broccoli Pesto Baked Pasta is everything you could want in a cozy, comforting meal—cheesy, flavorful, and packed with veggie goodness. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly nights while still feeling fresh and vibrant thanks to that garlicky basil-infused pesto. Plus, it’s super easy to make and great for meal prep!

So next time you’re craving a hearty baked pasta, skip the jarred sauce and give this homemade broccoli pesto version a try. Trust me, one bite of that golden, cheesy top layer, and you’ll be hooked! Enjoy!