Penne Pasta with Broccoli and Cheese Delivers Quick Comfort
Week of August 31, 2026
Weeknight Score: 15/20 (A−)
This dish is quick to make and great for weeknights.
- Time
- 3/4
- Ready in 31 to 45 minutes.
- Effort
- 2/4
- Several steps are involved and requires periodic attention.
- Cleanup
- 3/4
- You'll use a large pot for pasta and a skillet for the broccoli.
- Shopping
- 4/4
- 5 items to buy beyond pantry staples.
- Payoff
- 3/4
- Feeds four or five and reheats fine. Budget-friendly per serving.
Our Weeknight Score rates how easily a recipe fits a busy weeknight: time, effort, cleanup, shopping and leftovers. It is not a rating of taste, nutrition or dietary suitability.
How we score recipes · Scored with rubric v1.1
Why we picked it
It's a simple pasta dish that combines flavors without complicated techniques. Ideal for busy families, this recipe uses everyday ingredients and can be prepared in under an hour, making it a suitable option for a weeknight dinner.
Who it's for
This recipe is great for families looking for a quick meal with minimal fuss. It's also good for cooks who want to get their kids involved with basic chopping and mixing.
What you'll need
You'll need standard pantry items like pasta and garlic. Fresh broccoli and Parmesan cheese are key components, so check the fridge for those.
Make it easier
To save time, you can use pre-chopped broccoli and shredded cheese. Having everything ready to go before you begin cooking will streamline the process.