Curtis Stone’s Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Bake
Ready in just 30 minutes, this cheesy broccoli pasta bake by Curtis Stone is the ultimate quick and satisfying vegetarian dinner. With creamy ricotta, sharp cheddar, and crunchy walnut breadcrumbs, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make yet feels gourmet enough for any night of the week.
This pasta bake combines simple ingredients with clever technique — Curtis’ signature touch — making it both family-friendly and irresistibly cheesy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights.
Double cheese combo – Cheddar and ricotta make it rich and creamy.
Veggie-packed – Broccoli adds texture and nutrition.
Crunchy topping – Panko breadcrumbs and walnuts add the perfect golden finish.
Key Ingredients
Fusilli pasta: Holds sauce beautifully and stays firm when baked.
Broccoli: Adds color, crunch, and nutrients.
Cheddar & parmesan: Create that gooey, golden cheese pull.
Ricotta: Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
Panko & walnuts: Bring crisp texture to the top layer.
Ingredients (9)
Melted butter, to brush
1/4 cup (20g) panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup (25g) walnuts, toasted, finely chopped
20g butter, melted, extra
1/2 cup (40g) finely grated parmesan, divided
300g fusilli pasta
1 large broccoli, separated into small florets (about 280g)
2 cups (240g) grated tasty cheddar
250g ricotta
Allergens: Recipe may contain gluten, wheat, tree nut, yeast and milk.
Method
Step 1
Position a grill rack about 12cm from heat source and preheat grill. Brush a 7-cup (1.75L) baking dish with butter. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, walnuts, extra butter and half the parmesan.
Step 2
In a large saucepan of boiling water, cook pasta following packet directions until al dente, adding broccoli in the last 2 minutes. Drain, reserving 2/3 cup (160ml) of cooking liquid.
Step 3
Return the pasta mixture to the pan with cheddar and remaining parmesan. Stir until melted. In a medium bowl, whisk ricotta with 1/3 cup (80ml) reserved liquid, then add to pasta mixture. Stir until creamy. Add remaining liquid, if needed, to loosen sauce.
Step 4
Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture and grill for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown. Serve immediately.
Chef’s Tip
Save the pasta water — it’s perfect for loosening sauces and adds extra flavor.
Nutrition (per serving)
Energy: 2221 kJ (531 cal)
Protein: 23.3g
Fat: 28.0g (Saturated: 15.0g)
Carbohydrates: 46.5g (Sugars: 2.3g)
Sodium: 437.1mg
Health Score: 5.2 (Low)
