Go Back
–+ servings
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad for Effortless Meal Prep

Enjoy this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad, a vibrant and customizable dish perfect for meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Frozen broccoli can be used if blanched.
  • 1 cup Diced Red Onion Substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Shredded Carrots Optional for visual appeal and extra nutrition.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Dairy-free cheese can replace this for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for a vegan option or replace with nutritional yeast.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt serves as a lighter alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Ranch Dressing Use a plant-based ranch for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces and prepare diced red onion and shredded carrots. Blanch frozen broccoli if using.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled rotini, chopped broccoli, red onion, and shredded carrots. Add shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan.
  4. Prepare the Dressing: In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth.
  5. Combine and Coat: Pour dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, stirring gently until evenly coated.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, stir and serve the salad as a side dish or light meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Add a splash of dressing before serving again if needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!